|
Solar Power
The total solar energy absorbed by Earth's atmosphere, oceans and land masses is approximately 3,850 zettajoules (ZJ) per year. In 2002, this was more energy in one hour than the world used in one year (source: wikipedia).
There is one awesome thing about solar power. It is what God uses. All plants and life on earth depend on solar power. Plants and animals harness the solar energy to create and sustain life.
It’s obvious that it is a good choice. The only problem is that it has been a bit more difficult technologically to grasp. However, with the recent enthusiasm for alternative energy and nanotechnology, we can expect a large boom in solar energy infrastructure.
Within an individual silicon cell there are two layers of impure silicone: One side is "doped" with an element that tends to lose a valence shell electron and the other with one that needs one more electron to fill its valence shell. Often manufacturers use Boron and Phosphorous This sets up a situation where one side tends to be positive and the other negative. Where they meet is called the P/N junction. One has a tendency to give up an electron and the other has a tendency to attract an electron. Light energy in the form of photons creates a movement of electrons across the P/N junction (i.e.: current when you have a load attached). Each of these cells are connected with other cells in series and in parallel to form a module. Modules are then grouped into arrays which create a large source of power (source: solarpowerstore).
Rebates
You should keep in mind that you will most likely be able to get rebates. Federal and state rebates exist. Theses rebates will likely go away once solar really takes off. When solar is less costly on the outset than other forms of energy, you will see the rebates disappear and millions of people converting.
You may want to check with your city to find out what rebates are available to you.
Is Solar Enough?
Scientists estimate that solar can give enough power for the whole world. The problem lies in the infrastructure. It is very costly to take power from the solar and put it into the grid. However, we can expect that these kinds of projects will happen and solar will become cheaper and cheaper.
Individually, it will depend on where you live. If you live at the North Pole, than you might have a hard time with solar power. That is why we need to have other ways to get energy. However, solar will work for the majority of the planet.
Direct Current
Solar power is a direct current. It is the kind of electricity used in batteries. Most of us have homes than run on alternating current. That is why solar systems need a dc to ac converter to run the power of the home.
Solar Uses
Solar power is used to power and heat homes, cars, unmanned air vehicles, toys, pumps, fountains, and industrial manufacturing. In no way, is this an exhaustive list. Solar power is used throughout society.
| 
