The United Kingdom is a country that has seen a significant increase in the use of solar energy in recent years. But what exactly is solar energy, and where does it come from?
Solar energy is the energy that is produced by the sun. It is a renewable and sustainable source of energy that has been used by humans for thousands of years. The energy from the sun can be harnessed in two main ways: through photovoltaic (PV) technology, which converts sunlight directly into electricity, and through solar thermal technology, which uses the sun’s heat to generate electricity or to heat water.
In the UK, solar energy has become increasingly popular in recent years, thanks in part to government incentives and falling costs of PV panels. The UK’s solar energy capacity has grown from just 22 megawatts in 2010 to over 13 gigawatts by the end of 2020, making it one of the fastest-growing sources of renewable energy in the country.
But how exactly does solar energy work?
Photovoltaic Technology
Photovoltaic technology is the most common way of harnessing solar energy. It works by using photovoltaic cells, which are made from silicon, to convert sunlight directly into electricity. When sunlight hits the cells, it causes electrons to become excited and move around, creating an electric current.
PV cells are typically arranged into modules or panels, which can be installed on rooftops or on the ground to create solar arrays. These arrays can then be connected to the grid, allowing the electricity generated to be used by homes and businesses.
Solar Thermal Technology
Solar thermal technology works by using the sun’s heat to generate electricity or to heat water. This is done through the use of solar collectors, which are typically installed on rooftops or on the ground.
The collectors contain a fluid, which is heated by the sun’s rays and then circulated through a system to generate electricity or to heat water. In some cases, the system may also include a storage tank, which can be used to store the hot water for later use.
Benefits of Solar Energy
There are many benefits to using solar energy, both for individuals and for society as a whole. Some of the key benefits include:
1. Cost savings: Solar energy can help to reduce energy bills for homes and businesses, as well as reducing the overall cost of energy for society.
2. Reduced carbon emissions: Solar energy is a clean and renewable source of energy, which helps to reduce carbon emissions and combat climate change.
3. Increased energy security: Solar energy can help to increase energy security by reducing dependence on fossil fuels and imported energy.
4. Job creation: The growth of the solar industry has led to the creation of many new jobs, both in the manufacturing and installation of PV panels and in the maintenance and operation of solar arrays.
Conclusion
Solar energy is a renewable and sustainable source of energy that has the potential to play a significant role in the UK’s energy mix. With falling costs and government incentives, the growth of the solar industry is set to continue, providing cost savings, reducing carbon emissions and increasing energy security for the country. As the UK continues its transition to a low-carbon economy, solar energy is likely to play an increasingly important role in meeting the country’s energy needs.
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