Solar+Energy

=Kristy and Mike= =toc A Brief Overview of Solar Energy= Solar energy is a renewable resource classified into two categories: passive and active. Passive solar energy systems use direct light and heat from the sun to power heating, cooling and lighting. Active solar energy systems involve active use of technology to harvest energy from the sun. This includes the use of both photovoltaic panels to capture the sun (PV) as well as solar hot water systems installed in a home.



History of Solar Energy
In the last 10 years solar panels have made massive strides in becoming more efficient and less costly to produce, increasing their value even more. Installing and implementing solar systems has also become easier to do, making solar systems a mainstream building technology for builders and contractors. A common issue with alternate energy resources is storage and preservation. However recently modern technology has furthered these possibilities, and it was discovered that solar energy was easily stored after the discovery of the solar cell, or PV cell. The use of PV cells make the solar cell industry very sustainable.

Pros of Solar Energy


This graph shows how much annual Solar Energy is produced by the Sun compared to how much Humans use energy and the amount of fossil fuels that are produced.


 * Solar panels give off no pollutions unlike other energy resources such as fossil fuels like coal and iron.
 * Solar energy produces electricity very quietly, unlike other energy sources like noisy wind turbines.
 * Solar energy has the ability to be harnessed in remote locations that aren’t linked to a national grid.
 * Because solar energy requires no fuel, you will save money on the cost of gasoline.
 * The US government offers tax breaks up to $2,000 for people who use solar energy panels

Cons of Solar Energy

 * A major factor when deciding whether or not to install a solar panel is the fact that it is not 24 hours of electricity, it only works when the sun is shining.
 * Solar panels have a high installation cost.
 * Weather can affect the efficiency of solar panels.
 * Installing solar panels in cities where industry and pollution is high can hurt the effects of solar panels

Video: "How solar energy panels work"
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