What to Know Before Using Solar Energy?

Solar energy is the radiation (electromagnetic radiation) that comes from the Sun and it is used to produce heat, cause chemical reactions, or generate electricity, using the laws of energy conservation.

Using solar energy refers to harnessing and utilizing the radiant energy emitted by the sun for various purposes, such as generating electricity through solar panels, heating water or spaces through solar thermal systems, or powering other devices directly with solar cells. Using solar energy process involves converting sunlight into a usable form of energy to meet human needs while minimizing the environmental impact associated with traditional energy sources.

To answer the question “is solar power kinetic or potential energy?” Solar radiation is a potential energy. Potential energy is the energy that an object has due to its position relative to other objects, its shape, or its internal forces.

The Law of Conservation of Energy states that “Potential energy is stored energy that can be converted into kinetic energy, electrical energy or heat ”.

Solar radiation convertibility makes solar energy a good source to meet some of the world’s current and anticipated energy requirements.

The total amount of solar radiation on Earth is vastly more than the world’s current and anticipated energy requirements. The sun can produce enough energy every hour and a half (90 minutes) to power the entire Earth for a year, according to the “Design Methodology of Off-Grid PV Solar Powered System” study, by Eastern Illinois University. 

The Sun stands as an immensely potent energy source, with sunlight constituting Earth’s primary energy influx.Earth’s atmosphere and cloud cover reduce, absorb, or diffuse as much as 30% of the incoming radiation, but 70% of the sunlight that ultimately reaches the Earth’s atmosphere, according to Dr. CHristopher J. Rhodes, in “Solar energy: principles and possibilities” research.

The sunlight that ultimately reaches the Earth’s atmosphere encompasses approximately 38.9% visible light, 54.3%  infrared radiation, and about 6.8% ultraviolet (UV) and other forms of electromagnetic radiation, According to Dr. Daniel Barolet, in a research published in the Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology B: Biology. The potential for harnessing solar energy is colossal, given that Earth receives an astounding 200,000 times the entirety of the world’s daily electrical generation capacity from the Sun each day in the form of solar energy, according to Dr. CHristopher J. Rhodes, in “Solar Energy: Principles and Possibilities” research. Solar energy works when it is effectively converted into either thermal energy, in the form of heat, or into electrical energy.

Solar energy works, according to thermodynamics laws, by converting sunlight into heat or electricity using different technologies such as photovoltaic conversion using solar panels, photo thermal conversion, or passive solar systems.

Converting solar power into electricity or heat has many advantages and disadvantages and facts. Some of the advantages are getting a clean renewable and abundant energy source, reducing electricity bills, and using the power in transport, agriculture, industries, and solar energy systems for homes. Solar energy has 5 main usages and examples like (electricity generation, space heating and cooling, and industry powering).

There are 9 interesting facts about solar power like solar energy is the most abundant energy source, solar energy is used in space exploration, variety of choices of solar energy installation (homes’ roof, grounding), and solar energy tools’ cost is decreasing over time and by credit programs for householders. But Solar energy still has 5 disadvantages and limitations like (not working all the time, high upfront costs, and storage challenges). The average price of solar panels in the United States was $1 to 1.5$ per watt.

Solar energy for homes is when householders install solar panels to power their homes. House owners store electricity using 4 main solar energy storage technologies (batteries, flywheel energy storage). To afford solar systems including storing technologies, the government designed the federal solar energy credit which reduces the cost of solar energy by over 70%.

Solar energy is worth it, where Solar energy systems for homes save on average $1,360 yearly on energy bills. Solar energy cost decreases every year, unlike the fossil fuel cost which increases yearly.

House owners must avoid of solar energy scams, including (free solar panels, high-pressure sales tactics), and contact attorney general’s office or the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), If they think they have been victims of a solar energy scam.

This article answers the next questions: How does solar energy work? What is solar panels? How does solar photovoltaic work? What is passive solar energy? What are solar energy advantages? can you sell solar energy back to the power company? Is solar energy renewable? What are solar energy usages and examples? What are Solar energy disadvantages and limits? What is the cost and saving of solar energy systems? Solar energy systems for homes? What is solar energy installation?  What are facts about solar energy? What are solar energy storage technologies? What is solar energy credit? Is solar energy suitable for kids ?  What are solar energy scams? What do solar energy scams include? How to avoid solar energy scams? What are the differences between solar energy and fossil fuels? and Is solar energy worth it?

How Does Solar Energy Work?

Solar energy works and functions when sunlight hits a solar cell. Solar collector absorbs the sunlight. Then, electric charges move within PV cells creating electron-hole pairs. The pairs generate an electric current, allowing the flow of the solar electricity.

Solar radiation generates electricity or heat, according to its range of wavelengths. Solar radiation is a form of electromagnetic energy that behaves like a wave or a particle. Solar radiation has a vast scope of wavelengths. The energy of each photon of solar radiation depends on its wavelength.

 “A photon is the fundamental particle of light” (Albert Einstein, 1905)

Electricity is generated by solar radiation wavelengths that range from 0.38 µm to 0.72 µm, and thermal energy is generated by solar radiation wavelength infrared range 0.72 µm to 4 µm, according to “Thermodynamics of Photovoltaic and Concentrator Photovoltaic Systems and Determination of Their Energy and Energy Efficiencies” research, by Dr. Rahul Rawat.

When solar energy interacts with matter, energy is exchanged and generate movement of electric charges, responding to electrical field within the cell and thereby inducing the flow of electricity . This converts solar radiation into useful forms of energy, such as electrical energy and thermal energy (heat).

The laws of thermodynamics govern the conversion of solar radiation into other forms of energy. The following figure shows and explains the laws of thermodynamics.

Solar energy works, according to thermodynamic laws, by converting sunlight into heat or electricity. The following list is an explanation of how solar energy works in 3 steps.

1. Sunlight hits a solar collector.
2. The solar collector absorbs the sunlight and converts it into heat or electricity through the thermodynamics laws.
3. The heat or electricity are be used to power homes, businesses, and other devices.

To convert sunlight into electricity, solar systems use 2 main ways to do this are photo thermal conversion and photovoltaic conversion. These 2 main ways are in the following list.

• Photovoltaic Conversion. Photovoltaic conversion is when solar energy is directly converted into electrical energy using photovoltaic (PV) cells in solar panels. PV cells are made of semiconductor materials that absorb solar radiation and generate electron-hole pairs. These electron-hole pairs then are separated to create an electric current.
• Photothermal Conversion. Photothermal conversion is when solar energy is collected by some materials, which increases the kinetic energy of the atoms in the material. This leads to heat generation, which is be used for heating water, homes, and businesses, or to generate steam to drive turbines and generate electricity.

Solar energy also works through passive solar systems. Passive systems are structures that are designed to use sunlight and heat efficiently, without the need for external devices or tools to convert solar energy.

What is Solar Panels?

Solar photovoltaic (PV) technology (solar panels) is a type of active solar energy. Active solar energy is a way to use sunlight to generate electricity or heat using mechanical devices. Active solar energy systems use pumps, fans, and other mechanical devices to collect and distribute solar energy.  In solar Photovoltaic Technology, the devices are Solar panels.

How Does Solar Photovoltaic (Solar Panels) Work?

Solar photovoltaic (PV)  works by generating electricity directly from sunlight using solar cells. Solar cells are made of semiconductor materials absorb sunlight and create an electric current. Solar panels work has several steps (Absorption of solar energy, Generation of electrons, Creation of electric field, Flow of electrons, Collection of eurrent). Solar panels work whenever they are exposed to sunlight.

What is Passive Solar Energy?

Passive solar energy is a way to use sunlight to heat and cool buildings without the use of active mechanical systems. The passive solar design uses the sun’s energy to heat and cool buildings naturally, without the need for pumps, fans, solar panels, or other mechanical devices.

2 different passive solar design strategies are used, are in the following list.

• South-Facing Windows. They are windows allow sunlight (solar energy) to enter the building in the winter, which helps to heat the interior.
• Thermal Mass. Thermal mass is a material that absorbs and store heat from solar energy. Common thermal mass materials include concrete, brick, and tile. Thermal mass materials are used to store heat from the sun during the day and release it at night, helping to keep the building warm at night.

Passive solar energy systems is done through a variety of methods, such as using large windows to let in sunlight or using materials that absorb and store heat.

What Are Solar Energy Advantages?

Solar energy has 12 advantages, the following picture shows solar energy’s advantages.

The following list illustrates solar energy’s 12 advantages (advantages of rise energy solar usage) .

• Provides a Clean Renewable Energy Source. Solar energy does not produce any greenhouse gasses or other pollutants. solar energy does not finish.
• Provides an increased Efficiency. The efficiency of solar panels and all devices that use solar energy has increased recently, and scientists keep doing research and inventing technologies to enhance the efficiency of using solar power.
• Helps in Reducing Electricity Bills. Solar energy is transformed into electricity for your home or business. That helps you to reduce your reliance on the grid and save money on your energy bills.
• Improves the Value of Your Home. Homes with solar energy are often more valuable than homes without solar energy.
• Creates Jobs. The solar industry is a growing industry, and it is creating jobs in manufacturing, installation, and maintenance.
• Helps in Reducing Reliance on Fossil Fuels. Fossil fuels are a finite resource, and they are a major source of greenhouse gas emissions. Solar energy systems helps us to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and transition to a clean energy future.
• Works in Any Climate. Although cloudy days reduce the amount of electricity a solar system produces. However, cold or snowy weather does not affect productivity. Solar energy is a viable option for generating electricity in any location and in any climate.
• Earns Money From the Solar Energy System. By selling Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs). SRECs are certificates that represent one megawatt-hour of electricity generated from solar energy. to answer the question of “can you sell solar energy back to the power company?”, electricity suppliers buy SRECs to meet their state’s Renewable Portfolio Standard. You you sell solar energy back to the power company, if you have a solar energy system. This is a great way to earn money back on your investment in solar energy.
• Saves Money From Reducing Energy Imports. Solar energy helps to reduce a country’s dependence on imported fossil fuels, which saves money and improve energy security.
• Improves Air Quality. Solar energy is a clean source. It prevents the air and atmosphere from receiving greenhouse gasses. This improves public health.
• Improves Energy Access. Solar energy is used to provide electricity to remote areas that are not connected to the grid. This improves the quality of life for people in these communities and help to promote economic development.
• Provides Variety Usages. This renewable source is used to cook food, heat water, transport, and generate electricity.

Is Solar Energy Renewable?

Yes, Solar energy is renewable because it comes from the sun. The sun is a vast and virtually limitless source of energy. Renewable energy is energy derived from naturally replenishing sources, such as the sun, wind, water, and geothermal heat. It is a clean and sustainable alternative to fossil fuels.

The sun produces enough energy every hour and a half (90 minutes) to power the entire planet for a year. Solar energy is also renewable because it is used over and over again without being depleted. The sun shines every single day, so we never run out of solar energy.

What Are Solar Energy Usages and Solar Energy Examples?

Solar energy has 5 main usage aspects and examples. The following picture shows solar energy’s 5 usages and example.

The following list illustrates the 5 usages and examples of solar energy.

• Electricity Generation. Solar energy is used to generate electricity for homes, businesses, and power grids. 
• Water Heating. Solar energy is used to heat water for domestic use, such as for bathing, washing dishes, and laundry.Water heaters helps to reduce your energy bills by up to 50%, according to the U.S. Department of Energy Solar.
• Space Heating and Cooling. Solar energy is used to heat and cool buildings using a variety of passive and active systems. Passive solar design uses architectural features to maximize solar heat gain in the winter and minimize heat loss in the summer. Active solar systems use mechanical and electrical devices to collect, store, and distribute solar energy.
• Transportation Powering. Solar energy is used to power vehicles, such as electric cars and solar-powered boats. 
• Agriculture Powering. Solar energy is used to power irrigation systems, dry crops, and heat greenhouses. Solar-powered irrigation systems help to reduce farmers’ reliance on fossil fuels and improve water conservation. Solar dryers are used to preserve food and reduce food waste. Solar-heated greenhouses are used to grow crops year-round, even in cold climates.
• Industry Powering. Solar energy is used to power industrial processes, such as food processing, manufacturing, and water treatment.

What Are Facts About Solar Energy?

There are 9 interesting facts about solar energy. The following list illustrates the 9 main facts about solar energy.

• Solar Energy is The Most Abundant Energy Source. The Sun produces thermal energy due to nuclear fusion reactions with approximately 15.7 million degrees Kelvin and degree 5800 Kelvin temperatures at its core and surface respectively, according to Dr.Javad Fardaei in “The Formation of Quantum Sun“ research. At these temperatures, the Sun emits around 3.845×1026 watts of thermal radiation in all directions, known as solar radiation. The earth receives around 1.8×1011 Megawatt of solar radiation, According to “Thermodynamics of Photovoltaic and Concentrator Photovoltaic Systems and Determination of Their Energy and Exergy Efficiencies” research by Dr. Rahul Rawat 
• Solar Energy is the Fastest-Growing Energy Source. The usage of solar energy in 2023 was between 341 and 402 GW worldwide. It is expected to reach 800 GW in 2027, according to the International Energy Agency. 
• The Cost of Solar Energy Tools Has Fallen. The cost has decreased by more than 89% in the past decade, according to the International Renewable Energy Agency. 
• Variety of Choices for Installation. Solar panels are installed on rooftops, integrated into building materials, mounted on the ground, or even used in portable applications like solar chargers.
• Solar Energy is Used in Space Exploration. Solar energy is used to power spacecraft and satellites in outer space.
• Solar Energy is Expected to Provide a Significant Portion of the World’s Energy Needs. Solar energy will account for 16% of global electricity generation by 2030, according to the International Energy Agency (IEA) projects. Solar energy will be the source of 40% of the U.S. electricity in the next few decades, according to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Solar Energy Technologies Office and the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL).
• Solar Energy is Already Having a Positive Impact on the Environment. In 2020, solar energy helped to avoid the emission of over 2 billion tons of carbon dioxide, and greenhouse gasses that are produced usually when generating electricity from traditional sources, according to the International Energy Agency.
• Solar Energy Costs are Suitable for Everyone. The actual cost of solar energy vary depending on the size of a solar panel system, the type of solar panels, the quality of the installation, and the incentives and rebates available. So, everyone can obtain a solar energy system at a reasonable cost.
• Solar Energy Has 5 Disadvantages. Solar energy has many limitations, including not working all the time, high upfront costs, and storage challenges.

What Are Solar Energy Disadvantages and Solar Energy Limitations?

The following picture shows solar energy’s 5 disadvantages and limits.

The following list explaining the 5 main disadvantages and limitations of solar energy.

• Expensive. The cost to install solar energy systems is high, although the cost has been declining in recent years.
• Not Working at Night. It is not possible to generate electricity or heat from solar energy after sunset, at night. Therefore, it is necessary to store the solar energy produced during the day to benefit from it at night.
• Low Efficiency in Cloudy Weather. Solar energy generates less electricity on cloudy days
• Expensive Storage solutions. Solar energy is stored in batteries, but batteries are expensive and have a limited lifespan.
• Huge Land Use Requirements. Solar systems on ground need a lot of land to be installed on.
• Bad Environmental Impact of Manufacturing. The production of active solar energy devices have an environmental impact.

What is The Cost of Solar Energy Systems?

In 2023, the average solar energy cost in the United States was $1 to 1.5$ per watt, according to the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA). This means that a typical 6-kilowatt (kW) solar energy system would cost around $12,500 to install.

Solar energy cost vary depending on several factors, including the size of your solar panel system, the type of solar panels, the quality of the installation. Also, Solar energy cost is decreased by incentives and rebates available.

For example, high-efficiency solar panels are more expensive than standard solar panels, but they generate more electricity over the lifetime of the solar energy system. Similarly, a well-designed and installed solar energy system is more expensive than a poorly designed and installed solar system, but it is more efficient and reliable.

The upfront cost of installation, there are also some ongoing costs associated with solar energy systems, such as the cost of insurance and maintenance.

Solar Energy Systems for Homes?

Solar home energy is a way to generate electricity for your home using sunlight. Solar systems for homes come in different capacities (1KW systems, 3KW systems, 5KW systems). They are installed on your roof and convert sunlight into electricity. In home solar systems, electricity then is used to power your home and appliances.

There are 3 types of Solar energy systems for homes (grid-off, grid-connected, and hybrid system). To install solar energy for your home, you need to purchase solar panels and a solar inverter. The solar inverter convert the electricity generated by the solar panels into AC electricity. The generated electricity is stored in batteries, to power the home when electricity is not being generated, such as at night.

Householders reduce the cost of solar energy systems by using a solar energy credit as a tax credit which reduces the cost of solar energy by over 70%. Residential solar energy is suitable for kids in houses and all families members.

What is Solar Energy Installation?

Solar energy installation is the process of installing solar panels on a roof or other structure to generate electricity. Solar panels convert sunlight into direct current (DC) electricity, which is then converted into alternating current (AC) electricity by a solar inverter. A fundamental principle of electrical engineering states “The AC electricity then be used to power homes, businesses, and other buildings”.

The process of solar energy installation involves the following steps: first, site assessment, where a solar installer visit your property to assess the viability of installing a solar energy system. Second, system design, the solar installer design a solar energy system that meets your needs and budget. Third, permitting, you need to obtain a permit from your local government before you install a solar energy system. Fourth, installing solar panels on a home roof or other structure. Fifth, inspection, once the solar energy system is installed, it need to be inspected by a local inspector. 

What are Solar Energy Storage Technologies?

Solar energy storage technologies are equipment that store solar energy so that solar energy is used later when the sun is not shining. There are 4 different solar energy storage technologies available, they are listed bellow.

• Batteries. Batteries are the most common type of solar energy storage technology, especially in homes. Batteries store solar energy in the form of chemical energy, which then is converted into electrical energy when needed.
• Thermal Energy Storage. Thermal energy storage systems are systems store solar energy in the form of heat. This heat then is used to generate electricity, heat water, or space-heat buildings.
• Flow Batteries. Flow batteries are a type of battery that uses two liquid electrolytes to store and release energy. They are more expensive than traditional lead-acid batteries, but they have a longer lifespan and are more efficient.
•  Flywheel energy storage. Flywheels are devices that store energy in the form of kinetic energy. They spin at high speeds and store energy in their rotating mass. When energy is needed, the flywheel slow down to release the stored energy.

What is Solar Energy Credit?

A solar energy credit is a tax credit that homeowners claim for the cost of installing solar energy systems. Governments designed solar power credits to reduce the upfront cost of solar energy and make it more affordable for everyone.

In the United States, the federal solar energy credit is worth 26% of the cost of installing a solar energy system in 2023. This credit decrease to 22% in 2024 and expire at the end of 2034. The federal solar energy credit has helped to reduce the cost of solar energy by over 70%. 

The federal solar energy credit, many states and local governments also offer solar energy credits. These solar credit programs is combined with the federal credit to further reduce the cost of solar energy. Solar energy credits have helped to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by over 100 million tons.

Is Solar Energy Suitable for Kids ?

Yes, solar energy is suitable for kids. Solar energy protects the air from greenhouse gasses that come from traditional energy resources. Solar power is a safe power source and Does Not have any bad health effects on kids or householders. Solar energy is a great way to teach kids about science and technology. Kids learn about how solar panels work and how human use solar energy to generate electricity. Also, solar energy systems’ tools and equipment like solar panels, batteries, and inverters are safe for kids.

Is Solar Energy Worth it?

Yes, solar energy is worth it, the long-term savings on energy bills offset these costs. The average solar panel system in the United States saves homeowners $1,360 per year on their energy bills, according to the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA). This means that a typical 6-kW solar panel system pay for itself in around 10 years.

The actual savings vary depending on the cost of electricity in your area and the amount of electricity that your solar energy system generates. However, even in the most expensive areas, solar energy is a cost-effective way to reduce your energy bills and your carbon footprint. Also, Solar energy cost decreases every year, unlike the fossil fuel cost which increases yearly

What Are the Differences Between Solar Energy and Fossil Fuels? 

There are 4 main differences between solar power and fossil fuels. Solar power is a renewable fountain. In Contrast, fossil fuels are non-renewable sources of energy that come from the fossilized remains of plants and animals.

solar energy is a clean and renewable source, it prevents the air and atmosphere from receiving greenhouse gasses. In contrast, fossil fuels are a large cause of air pollution and greenhouse gases. 

Solar energy is a sustainable source of energy, which means that we can use solar power without depleting natural resources. Fossil fuels, on the other hand, are a non-renewable source of energy, which means that they run out. The cost of solar energy has fallen dramatically in recent years, and solar energy reduces the need to pay traditional electricity bills making solar energy worth the investment. While, the cost of fossil fuels has been rising steadily, which caused rising electricity bills. 

What is Solar Energy Scams?

Solar energy scams are deceptive practices that are designed to exploit consumers who are interested in installing solar energy systems. Solar energy scams take 4 main forms, but they involve fraudulent sales tactics, misleading claims about the benefits of solar energy, and high-pressure sales tactics.

A buyer must take many procedures to avoid solar power scams such as doing extensive research, getting multiple quotes, and being aware of high-pressure sales.

What Do Solar Energy Scams Include?

In the following list there are the 4 common solar energy scams.

• Free Solar Panels. Scammers offer free solar panels in exchange for a down payment or a monthly fee. However, these offers often come with hidden costs or requirements, and the solar panels are low quality.
• High-Pressure Sales Tactics. Scammers use high-pressure sales tactics to convince consumers to sign contracts for solar energy systems. These contracts are difficult to cancel, and consumers end up paying much more than they expected for their solar energy system.
• Misleading Claims. Scammers make misleading claims about the benefits of solar energy, such as overstating the amount of money that consumers save on their energy bills.
• Fake Companies. Some scammers create fake solar energy companies to defraud consumers. These companies disappear after collecting a deposit from consumers or after installing a poor-quality solar energy system.

How to Avoid Solar Energy Scams?

The following list contains 5 tips to avoid solar energy scams.

• Do Your Research. Before signing a contract with a solar energy company, be sure to research the company and the contract carefully. Read reviews of the company online and ask for references from previous customers.
• Get Multiple Quotes. Get quotes from multiple solar energy companies before making a decision. This help you to compare prices and services and to avoid being overcharged.
• Beware of High-Pressure Sales. Be wary of solar energy salespeople who use high-pressure sales tactics. Take your time and don’t feel rushed, if a salesperson is pressuring you to sign a contract.
• Read the Contract Carefully. Before signing a contract with a solar energy company, be sure to read the contract carefully and understand all of the terms and conditions.
• Ask for Help. You should contact your state’s attorney general’s office or the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), If you think you have been a victim of a solar energy scam.