Solar Energy Student Work

How is it Produced? Produced through a variety of methods on different scales: Solar-powered Photovoltaic (photovoltaic simply means they convert sunlight into electricity) -works by allowing photons, or particles of light, to knock electrons free from atoms, generating a flow of electricity. This is done by panels of solar cells.

How is it Produced? Concentrating Solar Power systems use lenses or mirrors and tracking systems to focus a large area of sunlight into a small beam. The concentrated heat is then used as a heat source for a conventional power plant.

Where solar energy is used? The 3rd most used renewable energy source used in the world. Germany is the worldwide leader in solar energy. The regions that use solar energy is Europe and the United States. Solar energy panels have to be in large flat lands. It also needs a lot of exposure to uv Rays and a place where it is sunny most of the time. A great place for solar in the US is the plains.

What are Uses of Solar Energy Used to generate electricity, or provide light for a comfortable interior environment. It is used to heat water for domestic, commercial, or industrial use. You can harness sunlight to power your home if you have solar panels. Solar energy is used to go green and help save the environment. Frequently used for transportation signaling, such as lighthouses and road traffic signals.

Pros and Cons of solar energy Gives off no pollution after it has arrived at the destination Produces the energy quietly and minimal effort Can harness energy in remote locations Can be placed on top of houses and can save space Allows the user to become less dependant on fossil fuels Cons: The cost of the cells are very high Can only be used in daylight hours Weather can decrease the effectiveness and cannot produce any energy Pollution can alter the cells