Photovoltaics, otherwise known as solar cells, were invented by Charles Fritts in the 1880's. This revolution has continued, even though they did not convert much sunlight into electricity at that time. The best example is Vanguard 1, a satellite that used solar cells to transmit back to earth after its battery died.
The 1973 oil crisis stimulated a significant demand for solar power. Power companies used to charge consumers one hundred dollars for every watt, early on. During the decade of the '80s, it dropped to seven dollars a watt.
United States use of solar energy is declining, while its on the rise in countries such as Germany and Japan. From 31.2 megawatts in 1999, up to 318 megawatts by 1999, world wide production growth of 30%. South Korea, Italy, and France are just behind Spain, which is third largest solar power user behind these two nations.
In order to maximize solar energy output, these three methods apply. Specifically, these approaches are active and passive as well as solar photovoltaic processes.
The passive approach depends much on the design of the building. The building will be able to contain heat better, allowing the people inside to stay comfortable with help from a controlled ventilation system and day lighting. By applying this, homes can expect to reduce the requirement for heating by 80% and at a minimal cost.
Active solar heating converts sunlight to heat and provides space and water heating. Such as is done in Europe, the correct size could cover over 50% of your water heating.
Lastly, there is photovoltaic, which changes solar radiation to electricity. This happens by installing solar cells, and the more intensity of light, the greater the flow of electricity. Watches and calculators are some devices that utilize the different size available.
Solar energy is currently used to power some vehicles. The World Solar Challenge in Australia invites competitors all over the world to compete in the event that also features cars not commercially produced yet. There are also balloons and aerial vehicles that are unmanned. Thus far, only passenger boats have been successful using solar energy.
Some of our options to preserve the environment, is reducing our dependence on oil, and not taking the sun for granted. When compared to kerosene and batteries, solar energy is much cheaper to provide power to homes, and we need to convince the government to do more about it.
