Facts About Solar Energy:

The sun shines every day and yet few people ever stop to consider the vast amount of energy that it provides. We reap its benefits directly in the form of heat and daylight but solar energy can do so much more if only we take the time to harness it. Through the use of solar technology the energy of the sun can be turned into other useful forms of energy to power many of our modern needs. In our energy dependent society this underutilized resource can provide so much of what we need if only we harness its potential.

One of the first things that people think of when they consider using the sun’s energy is solar panels or photovoltaic cells that absorb sunlight and turn it into electric power that can be used to power houses, offices, factories and other buildings. Solar energy is also used in solar powered water heaters, most commonly for household use. There are even portable solar powered battery chargers and green batteries on the market which are a great boon for those who camp or who may need to charge up their batteries away from home.

Passive solar is another concept that is very useful in building design. By designing a home to allow more of the sun’s rays in during winter months heating costs can be greatly reduced.

Much has been said over the years about the environmental advantages of solar energy. It seems obvious that using sunlight for power is a smart choice. Other energy sources may belch smoke into the air or generate hazardous waste. They may burn up non-renewable resources, which do not bode well for the future when these resources run out. Not so with solar power. Each morning a new supply of the sun’s energy is available ready to be collected and put to use.

It is easy to see that whether solar power is used to heat water for household use, to generate electricity, or even to power an automobile it is a valuable option to supplement or replace our current technology and to protect the earth’s valuable resources. Over the long term the cost of solar energy both to the planet and to the pocketbook are much less. As more solar installations solar power begins to gain more acceptance and enthusiasm. This spurs on further development to make the solar technology that is available better and better.