Solar energy has gained popularity in recent years as a clean and renewable source of energy. It is harnessed by using solar panels to capture the sun’s energy and convert it into electricity. The United Kingdom is one of the countries that have embraced the use of solar energy. In this article, we will look at how solar energy is obtained in the UK.
Solar panels are the primary source of solar energy in the UK. They are made of photovoltaic cells that convert sunlight into electricity. These cells are made of layers of silicon, which is a semiconductor that can absorb sunlight. When sunlight hits the cells, it knocks electrons out of their orbits, creating a flow of electricity. This process is known as the photovoltaic effect.
The solar panels are mounted on rooftops, open fields, or on the ground. They are positioned at an angle to maximize the amount of sunlight they receive. The solar panels are connected to an inverter, which converts the direct current (DC) electricity generated by the panels into alternating current (AC) electricity that can be used in homes and businesses.
Solar energy can also be obtained through solar thermal systems. These systems use the sun’s energy to heat water or air, which is then used to provide hot water or heating in homes and businesses. Solar thermal systems are made up of solar collectors that absorb sunlight and transfer the thermal energy to a fluid. The fluid is then circulated through a heat exchanger, where it heats the water or air.
In the UK, the most common type of solar thermal system is the flat plate collector. These collectors are made of a flat, rectangular box with a glass cover. The box is usually made of metal, and it contains a series of tubes or pipes that carry the fluid. The tubes or pipes are painted black to absorb as much sunlight as possible. When the fluid is heated, it is pumped to a storage tank, where it is stored until it is needed.
Solar energy can also be obtained through concentrated solar power (CSP) systems. These systems use mirrors or lenses to focus the sun’s energy onto a small area, where it is converted into heat. The heat is then used to generate electricity through a steam turbine. CSP systems are not commonly used in the UK, but they are popular in countries with high levels of solar radiation, such as Spain and the United States.
One of the advantages of solar energy is that it is a renewable source of energy. The sun’s energy is available every day, and it does not produce any greenhouse gases or other harmful emissions. Solar energy is also becoming more affordable, with the cost of solar panels and installation decreasing over time.
However, solar energy does have some limitations. Solar panels require a lot of space, and they are most effective when they are positioned at an angle that maximizes the amount of sunlight they receive. This may not be possible for all homes and businesses. Solar energy is also dependent on weather conditions, and it may not be as effective on cloudy or rainy days.
In conclusion, solar energy is obtained through solar panels, solar thermal systems, and concentrated solar power systems. Solar energy is a clean and renewable source of energy that is becoming more affordable over time. While solar energy has some limitations, it is an important part of the UK’s efforts to transition towards a more sustainable energy system.
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