Solar energy, as the name suggests, comes from the sun. It is a form of energy that is harnessed by using photovoltaic (PV) cells. The United Kingdom has been investing heavily in solar energy for the past few years. In this article, we will discuss where solar energy comes from and how it is used in the UK.
The sun is the most abundant source of energy on the planet. It emits a tremendous amount of energy in the form of light and heat. This energy can be used to power homes, businesses, and even entire cities. The process of converting this energy into electricity is called photovoltaics.
Photovoltaic cells are made up of silicon crystals. When sunlight hits these cells, it excites the electrons in the silicon, causing them to move around. This movement of electrons generates electricity, which can be stored in batteries or used to power homes and businesses.
The UK has been investing heavily in solar energy for the past few years. In fact, solar energy has become the fastest-growing source of renewable energy in the country. The government has been providing incentives to homeowners and businesses to install solar panels on their roofs. The Feed-in Tariff (FIT) scheme, which was introduced in 2010, is one such incentive. It pays homeowners and businesses for the energy they generate from their solar panels.
Solar energy is a clean and renewable source of energy. It does not emit any greenhouse gases or pollutants, making it an excellent alternative to fossil fuels. Solar panels require very little maintenance and can last for up to 25 years. They are also becoming more affordable, making them accessible to more people.
Solar energy is used in a variety of ways in the UK. One of the most common uses is to power homes and businesses. Solar panels can be installed on rooftops, and the energy generated can be used to power appliances and lighting. Excess energy can be stored in batteries or fed back into the grid.
Solar energy is also used to power streetlights, traffic signals, and other public infrastructure. This helps to reduce energy costs and lower carbon emissions.
In addition to these uses, solar energy is also used in remote areas where there is no access to the grid. Solar panels can be used to power homes and businesses in these areas, providing a reliable source of electricity.
The UK has set ambitious targets for renewable energy. The government aims to generate 30% of the country’s electricity from renewable sources by 2020. Solar energy is expected to play a significant role in achieving this target.
In conclusion, solar energy comes from the sun and is harnessed using photovoltaic cells. It is a clean and renewable source of energy that is becoming increasingly popular in the UK. Solar panels can be used to power homes, businesses, and public infrastructure. The UK government has set ambitious targets for renewable energy, and solar energy is expected to play a significant role in achieving these targets.
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