In previous articles we talked about solar panel regulations in Homes, but do we really know what Solar Energy is? What types of energy exist and what are their advantages? As PROT energía we want to resolve all your doubts and questions about solar energy and its benefits in this article.
What is solar energy?
We will start by explaining what Solar Energy is. Itis the energy that is obtained in a renewable way thanks to the electromagnetic radiation of the sun. To obtain this energy it must be converted into thermal or electrical energy thanks to photovoltaic or other solar panels such as thermal solar panels.
Solar energy is inexhaustible and is considered very abundant, which is why, in addition to being a renewable source, it is also a clean energy which is an alternative to the energy sources that we currently know and that are non-renewable such as fossil energy or nuclear. This is the main reason why it is considered green energy.
How does it work?
As we have mentioned, solar energy is produced thanks to photoelectric cells, that is, through solar panels since they are responsible for converting the energy. In this way, the installation captures solar radiation and transforms it into energy.
It is important to note that energy is produced through fusion reactions before reaching Earth. This radiation is transported to the Earth through electromagnetic waves to later be used or stored.
What types of Solar Energy exist?
After briefly mentioning on what Solar Energy consists of and how it works, we will discuss the different types that exist. Specifically, there are 3 types:
Thermal solar energy
Solar thermal energy takes advantage of the heat that comes from solar radiation and converts it into thermal energy to heat the fluid. This fluid is converted to be used as heating or hot water. In addition, heat can also be generated to boil water, produce steam and run turbines.
The solar thermal energy installation is made up of different systems, one to capture solar radiation, another system to store the energy obtained and finally, a heat distribution and consumption system.
Photovoltaic Solar Energy
Another type of Solar Energy is photovoltaics, which allows the solar radiation obtained to be transformed into electricity thanks to photovoltaic cells. To produce this type of energy, the installation of solar panels that include photovoltaic cells is needed. These are normally formed by semiconductor materials that ionise and electrons are released. Thanks to the addition of different electrons, electric current and electricity are generated.
Passive solar energy
The last type of Solar Energy that we want to comment on is passive. This is energy that allows us to take advantage of heat and sunlight without using other external resources. Passive Solar Energy is less common since it needs to be incorporated during the construction or remodelling of the building, and it is also necessary to mention that it does not work as a sole energy source but rather a complementary energy source.
What are the advantages of Solar Energy?
Finally, we want to mention the most important advantages that Solar Energy provides.
Renewable source
One of the most important advantages is that Solar Energy is a renewable source, in addition, it is also an inexhaustible source to which everyone has access since it comes from the Sun. It is important to highlight that transformation to generate thermal or photovoltaic energy does not produce any waste.
Less impact on the environment
In relation to the first advantage, it is necessary to mention that Solar Energy, in addition to being renewable, is an energy that does not emit greenhouse gases or any other types of polluting gases. In this way, solar energy does not contribute to global warming since it has a lower impact on the environment because it does not emit any toxic substances that could affect the air.
Installation and maintenance
Finally, we want to highlight that, as we mentioned, every day there are more subsidies and aid to be able to install solar panels and this is because many people increasingly choose to self-consume their own energy. Furthermore, and thanks to technological improvements, the maintenance and installation of solar panels is increasingly simpler and cheaper.
If after reading this article you need information about solar panels for homes or their installation, do not hesitate to contact us or request a quote, we would be happy to help!
