Solar energy reaches the Earth as infrared radiation and visible light. Scientists estimate that the sun will continue to provide heat, energy and light for the next 5 billion years, according to the University of Wisconsin at Stevens Point website. Because the sun constantly provides solar energy to Earth, sunlight is a renewable resource. People can harness the inexhaustible power of the sun and convert it into an energy source, according to the Union of Concerned Scientists, a non-profit environmental group.
Solar Energy Systems
Both active and passive solar energy systems capture sunlight and convert it into energy, according to the University of Wisconsin at Stevens Point. Active solar systems use a solar collector to heat air or liquid that is pumped through ducts or tubes to heat various sections of buildings. Using the passive method, architects can design and construct buildings in a way that allows the structures to capture sunlight to heat their interiors without the use of mechanical or electrical devices.
Uses
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) recommends various ways you can use the power of sunlight as an energy source. Use solar energy to provide heat and electricity for your home or office. Solar water heaters have solar collectors and storage tanks that provide hot water for your home or swimming pool. You can also install south- or north-facing windows and skylights to increase the amount of light that enters your home.
History
In 1839, French scientist Edmund Becquerel discovered that certain materials give off a spark of electricity when hit by sunlight, according to the Union of Concerned Scientists. During the 1950s, scientists at Bell Labs used this discovery to develop solar cells that turned four percent of the energy from sunlight directly into electricity. In 1973, the University of Delaware built “Solar One,” one of the world’s first solar-powered homes, according to the DOE.
Benefits
Solar energy provides a free energy source that will never run out, according to the Union of Concerned Scientists. Because solar power systems do not require fuel, they do not release pollutants, such as greenhouse gases like carbon monoxide, into the air, according to Earth 911. Using solar energy systems can save you money by reducing utility costs. As of 2010, the United States government offers a tax break for people to install solar hot water systems.
Disadvantages
Solar energy systems only work when the sun is shining. At night or on cloudy days, when a limited amount of sunlight reaches the earth's surface, these systems might need a backup heating source, such as a wood stove, electric heating system or small oil furnace. In addition, solar energy systems can be costly to install, according to Earth 911. However, the Union of Concerned Scientists reports that the cost will likely decrease in the future.
References
- University of Wisconsin Stevens Point: Facts About Solar Energy: Solar Heating
- Union of Concerned Scientists: Clean Energy: How Solar Energy Works
- U.S. Department of Energy: Renewable Energy: Exploring Ways to Use Solar Energy
- U.S. Department of Energy: Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy: The History of Solar
- Earth 911: Pros and Cons of Solar Power/Panels
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