4 Common Types of Solar Power Technology
Humans need to find new methods of sustainable and green energy, which is why the future might rely on solar power. Therefore, it's vital to know more about it and how it might be applied in the future. Many countries are investing in solar farms, and according to the Pew Research Center, 89% of United States residents are in favor of expanding those endeavors. Let's find out more about these technologies, the different kinds, and how they work.
1. Passive Solar Energy
There are two types of solar energy that can be used in our modern world, and one of them is passive solar energy, which involves gathering and utilizing the sun's light without using any mechanical gadgets. For example, when you buy a house with sun-facing windows, you won't need to turn on your electrical lights as often, as there should be enough light for the entire day. Natural lighting and the sun's heat are perfect examples of passive solar energy, as nothing is actively harnessing it for other purposes.
2. Active Solar Energy
Active solar energy is the kind where mechanical devices, such as solar panels, can collect and distribute energy to be used in various ways, like powering our electrical gadgets. The sun shines brightly, and its light can be harnessed to people's benefit, which would contribute to reducing carbon emissions. It's green energy, a subject that is of vital importance because of climate change.
Now that you know the two types of solar power, especially active solar energy, it's time to learn how they can be turned into useful sources of power for our daily lives.
3. Solar Thermal Energy
One kind of solar energy is turned into thermal power, which can create electricity. This one is used for large-scale projects and harnessed with flat or curved mirrors that span grand areas. Power plants turn the sun's light into high-temperature heat, which can be routed to a conventional generator. Therefore, power plants consist of solar panels that convert the light into thermal energy.
4. Concentrating Solar Energy
This type of power consists of turning energy into electricity and storing the excess to be used when there isn't light. This is achieved thanks to photovoltaic solar cells, which use semiconductors to channel electricity.
Now that you know these types of solar power, you can think about the future in a more detailed manner. Contact Northwind Solar today for reliable solar installation services!
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