Solar energy

Today, the use of various energy sources such as solar energy is one of the important principles in human life because as time passes, fossil resources become less and less, and human energy needs increse! In this time, the use of alternative sources of of fossil fuels, such as renewable energy sources, must be more attention than ever before.

Solar energy reaches the Earth through the sun’s radiation and is usable to meet our energy needs. Solar radiation allows electricity generation and heat supply for a variety of uses, from residential to industrial. Throughout history, humans have used this energy for heating and lighting, and today there are many different technologies to exploit it.

Comprehensive definition of solar energy

Solar energy is abundant and renewable energy source that has attracted a lot of attention as a clean alternative to traditional fossil fuels, this energy is able to help society by generating electricity and heat for various uses. In fact, the use of the sun to discuss energy is done in two main ways: converting light into electricity and accumulating solar heat. This energy is converted into electricity during processes such as absorption by solar cells or used directly in heating systems and hot water production.

Solar energy, which is used as electricity, is actually the light rays that are converted into electricity during a process, which is done by solar cells. Solar cells are usually made of silicon and placed in a solar panel. When sunlight hits solar cells, it stimulates electrons in cells and creates an electric current, this direct conversion of sunlight rays into electricity is known as the Photovoltaic effect. The electric current generated is then converted into usable electricity by electronic equipment.

Solar energy can be used as a heat source in addition to generating electricity. In solar thermal systems, this energy is converted into heat. These systems are usually made up of solar thermal collectors that receive the sun’s heat and transfer heat to fluid or air.

Applications of solar energy

This energy can be used in a wide variety of cases, some of which are discussed below;

Solar electricity

Solar energy can be connected to the power grid or used in Off-grid systems to power the space in question and is also able to operate to power alongside other energy sources (in the form of hybrids). Electricity generation can be used to meet the electricity needs of homes, companies, commercial centers, factories, etc. It’s used. This electricity is usually transferred by solar cells to a battery or energy storage system. These batteries are able to store electrical energy so that they can provide the electricity they need at times when sunlight is not available (such as at night).

Solar heating

It’s a process where solar energy is used to heat spaces and water. This process is typically done through the use of solar thermal collectors. Solar thermal collectors are actually surfaces that absorb solar energy and extract thermal energy from it.

Solar heating is used as a sustainable and clean method for heating homes, buildings, pools and other spaces. In this process, instead of using fossil fuels such as oil or gas to generate heat, they use the heat of the sun.

Solar cooling

Solar energy can be used to provide electricity for cooling systems of buildings.

Solar energy in industry

Solar energy is also used in various industries. Use cases include electricity supply, steam generation, refrigeration, and chemical and industrial processes. Electricity generation from this source has many advantages for industries, including: Reduced electricity costs, Sustainable energy supply and No power outages during peak hours, Ease of electricity supply for areas with limited access to electricity

Agriculture

A solar pump is a device that operates by pumping water using solar energy. Simple structure and consistent performance over time are features of these pumps. By converting solar energy into electricity, a solar pump is capable of creating water flow for irrigation, providing drinking water, drip irrigation systems, etc.

Solar transportation

Solar energy can be used to power various types of transportation, including cars, boats, and airplanes. Vehicles charge their batteries using solar panels and provide their propulsion.

Solar Lighting

Solar energy can also be used as a lighting source. Solar panels can absorb the sun’s energy during the day and charge the batteries, and use the ambient lighting created by this system at night.

Another application is sun energy for lighting indoor and outdoor spaces. Solar lighting systems include the use of solar cells to provide artificial light in buildings, streets, parks, and public areas.

Space industry

Satellites in space rely on solar systems to provide the energy they need because of the lack of access to the power grid and the lack of fossil fuel resources. Solar energy is the main source of electricity in satellites. Solar cells perform well in space, ensuring energy supply for satellite systems.

Water treatment

Water treatment systems can convert contaminated water into clean, consumable water using solar energy. These systems include solar water purifiers.

The mentioned items are only a part of the applications of solar energy and every day due to technological advances and the development of new methods, more applications for this type of energy source are discovered.

Advantages of solar energy

In the following, we describe some of the advantages of this type of energy;

Installation in each area

Solar systems can be installed in any area, from large cities to rural areas and even remote locations where electricity is not possible. The use of electricity in each area is a unique feature of this type of energy supply, which helps individuals and communities access to sustainable energy sources

Utility-scale electricity generation

Solar farms have the capacity to produce a considerable amount of electricity. With installations placed on the ground, this energy can generate megawatts or even gigawatts of power, contributing to overall energy supply. These farms perform better in regions with moderate and cool climates, producing more electricity.

Saving energy costs

You can save energy costs by using solar energy. Supplying electricity through solar systems usually has lower operating costs than buying heavy equipment and supplying fossil fuels, during the lifetime of solar systems, the cost of production and maintenance is significantly reduced, and on the other hand, there is no need to purchase and supply fossil fuels.

Useful land use

Farms or rural areas are often ideal locations for solar farms due to their ample space and adequate sunlight exposure. These facilities can make productive use of land that may not be suitable for other purposes, such as agriculture or construction, thereby maximizing land productivity.

The independence of energy supply source

Using solar energy enables you to independently utilize this energy without relying on the public electricity grid, providing access to energy in areas where there are difficulties in electricity supply without facing complex issues such as traditional wiring.

Being clean, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and being eco-friendly

Solar energy is a clean source that does not produce pollutants, and using solar energy can help preserve the environment. Its use in electricity and heat production reduces the use of fossil fuels, thereby reducing greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution.

Renewability

Sunlight can be recovered over time. This means not worrying about the exhaustion of resources and the continuous use of this energy.

Employment and economic development

The solar energy industry can provide a broad employment base. From designers and manufacturers of solar systems to installers and repairmen, creating jobs in the industry can be beneficial for economic prosperity. The maintenance and development of solar systems also helps create new jobs in different regions.

Conclusion

Solar energy is a symbol for the intelligent use of an abundant and accessible energy source that is far from dependent on fossil fuels, very important for the sustainable and green future of society. The use of solar energy is an important step towards energy sustainability as well as environmental protection. Given climate change and the growing needs of society, the use of solar energy as a clean, renewable and economical resource is very important and necessary.

This energy has a very high potential to meet the energy needs of global societies, which can act as a grid-connected power plant (On-Grid), hybrid system, or Off-Grid system. By creating support facilities and policies, more research on solar technologies, and creating more awareness in the community, we can fully exploit the potential of this valuable resource and reach a sustainable and green solution in energy supply.