Solar Energy

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What Is Solar Energy?

Solar energy uses the sun’s light and heat to generate renewable or ‘green’ power. The most common form of solar energy is harnessed by solar panels, or photovoltaic cells. In photovoltaic power stations, they’re arranged almost edge-to-edge to capture sunlight in large fields. You’ll also see them on top of houses and other buildings at times, as well. The cells are created from semiconductor materials. When the sun’s rays hit the cells, it loosens electrons from their atoms. This allows the electrons to flow through the cell and generate electricity.

On a much larger scale, solar collectors can generate power for thousands of people at once. Solar-thermal power plants use a variety of techniques to produce power using the sun. The sun’s energy is used to boil water which, in turn, operates a steam turbine to generate in a similar fashion to that of coal or nuclear power plants.

Is Solar Right for You?

As energy customers turn towards more renewable and green energy options, it’s important to differentiate their pros and cons. Before committing to a newer, greener energy source, try to establish a budget that would be affordable to you and your family. Then, calculate what the solar energy option would cost you in the long run and how much it would save over time. Make a list of pros and cons that are personalized to you and your family specifically, so that you can better understand what options are more beneficial to you over others.

Solar Energy Pros and Cons

Solar energy has pros and cons. It’s important to find an energy that works for you, and determining if solar energy will fit into your daily lifestyle is a priority. Here are some factors to consider when deciding which energy choice is right for you.

Advantages of Solar Energy Disadvantages of Solar Energy
Lowers your Electricity Bills Expensive Initial Investment
Environmentally Friendly It Won’t Work at Night
Moves us Closer Towards Energy Independence Limited Energy Storage
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