Introduction
There are several ways to harness and use solar energy, which is a sustainable and renewable energy source.
It is one of the cleanest sources of energy now accessible and has the potential to take the place of fossil fuels, which are diminishing quickly and harming the environment.
Types of Solar Energy
Solar energy is a clean, sustainable energy source that is gaining popularity across the world.
As technology advances, four major forms of solar energy may currently be harvested in a number of ways. In this post, we’ll look at these four forms of solar energy and their distinguishing features.
Photovoltaic (PV) Solar Energy
Photovoltaic solar energy is the most popular kind of solar energy, which turns sunlight directly into electricity.
This is accomplished by using solar panels, which comprise a number of photovoltaic cells composed of silicon or other semiconducting elements.
As sunlight strikes photovoltaic cells, electrons within them become energized and flow about. This electron movement generates an electrical current, which may be harnessed and utilized to power homes, companies, and other buildings.
PV solar energy systems, which may be put on roofs or on the ground, can provide electricity for a wide range of purposes.
PV solar energy may be utilized as a primary source of electricity as well as in combination with other energy sources such as wind or hydro power to build a hybrid energy system.
Concentrated Solar Power (CSP)
Concentrated solar power (CSP) is a kind of solar energy that focuses sunlight onto a tiny area, which is then utilized to heat a fluid.
The heated fluid is then used to make steam, which is subsequently utilised to power a turbine, generating energy.
CSP systems may generate significant amounts of electricity, with some systems capable of producing hundreds of megawatts of power.
They can also be combined with other sources of energy to form hybrid energy systems.
CSP systems have the advantage of being able to store heat, allowing them to continue producing power even when the sun is not shining.
As a result, they are a more dependable source of energy than PV solar energy systems, which create electricity only when the sun shines.
Solar Heating and Cooling
Solar heating and cooling is a sort of solar energy that uses the sun’s energy to heat or cool a building or residence.
This is accomplished by the use of solar collectors, which capture and convert solar energy into heat that may be used to warm water or air.
The heated water or air is then dispersed throughout the structure or residence to provide heating or cooling.
Solar heating and cooling may be utilized in both residential and commercial settings, and it is extremely efficient, with some systems attaining over 80% efficiency.
It is also quite dependable, with most systems lasting over 25 years. Nevertheless, because solar heating and cooling are dependent on sunshine, their output might fluctuate depending on weather conditions.
Passive Solar
A structure or residence may be spontaneously heated and cooled by the sun using passive solar energy, which doesn’t require the use of mechanical or electrical equipment.
This is accomplished by utilising building design, orientation, and materials that enhance solar energy absorption, distribution, and retention.
Buildings with passive solar architecture may dramatically save energy expenditures and greenhouse gas emissions. It can be applied in both new and existing structures. It may not be appropriate for all climates and requires careful planning and design.
Solar companies in Gujarat
Gujarat, a state in western India, has developed into a national powerhouse for solar energy as a result of its hospitable environment and supportive policies from the government.
As a result, there are number of renowned Solar companies in Gujarat that have a major impact on the expansion of the solar energy sector in India.
Few of the top Solar Companies in Gujarat are listed as under:
- Adani Solar
- Vikram Solar
- Waaree Energies
- Bitta Solar Power Plant
- Trom Solar
- Lobel Solar Power System
- Goldi Green Technologies Private Limited
- Green Brilliance Energy Private Limited
- Gujarat Industries Power Company Limited (GIPCL)
- Azure Power
Conclusion
Solar power is a flexible and sustainable energy source that has the potential to completely change how we produce and consume energy.
Solar energy comes in four primary forms: photovoltaic, concentrated solar power, solar heating and cooling, and passive solar.
Each kind has its own benefits and applications. It seems expected that solar energy will play a bigger part in supplying our energy demands and lowering our environmental impact as the cost of solar energy continues to fall and technology advances.
Read More: How Does Solar Work?
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