Solar Energy By: Luis A. Cliff B. Emily B.

Description Solar energy produces its electricity by using the sun’s energy Solar panels are used to redirect the sun’s light and use it for energy

Solar Thermal Solar thermal power plants use the sun's rays to heat a fluid. Solar thermal power plants use the sun's rays to heat a fluid. The fluid is then circulated through pipes so it can transfer its heat to water to produce steam. The fluid is then circulated through pipes so it can transfer its heat to water to produce steam. Then the steam turns the turbine and the turbine makes the energy to turn the generator. Then the steam turns the turbine and the turbine makes the energy to turn the generator.

Doesn’t produce pollution or emissions The energy is FREE Solar cells last a lifetime Renewable resource

Cost of equipment is expensive Requires a large area Pollution can degrade efficiency of PV cells Clouds can reduce energy of the sun’s rays Only useful when the sun shines

Most common spots for solar energy are Arizona, New Mexico, and Nevada because they are very hot, have a lot of open area, and the sun shines strongly in those states. Some of the best spots on the earth are in northern Africa. The climate there is very hot and dry.

Benefits & Cost to Individual Homeowner Benefit of putting solar panels Benefit of putting solar panels Compensation by state government for the electricity you produce. Compensation by state government for the electricity you produce. The cost is between $15,000-$30,000 The cost is between $15,000-$30,000 It may take from 8 to 12 years to make the money back. It may take from 8 to 12 years to make the money back.