essay on solar panel

Essay On Solar Energy

500 words essay on  solar energy.

Solar energy refers to the energy which the sunlight contains in the form of photons. It is not possible for life on earth to exist without solar energy .  All kinds of microorganisms and single-celled organisms came into existence with solar energy’s help. Plants have been using this energy ever since the beginning. Thus, through essay on solar energy, we will study about it in detail.

Methods of Using Solar Energy

We can trap solar energy in a lot of ways. One of the most efficient ways to do this is by using solar power plants. The design of these power plants is such that it helps to produce electricity on a larger level.

Other appliances which work on solar energy are solar cookers, solar heaters and solar cells. The solar cookers are said to be the most innovative methods of cooking nowadays. It is a great alternative to conventional fuels like gas, kerosene and wood .

These cookers are eco-friendly and also inexpensive means of cooking. Further, we have solar heaters which help to heat water using solar energy. Thus, it does not require electricity to heat water.

Finally, we have solar cells. They operate by directly converting solar light into electricity. In areas where supply from power grid is less available, solar cells are quite popular.

Similarly, a lot of calculators, wrist watch and other similar systems operate with this technology. The electricity which solar panels produce also stores in rechargeable solar batteries.

Advantages of Solar Energy

A major advantage of solar energy is that it is a renewable source. Thus, it will be available to use as long as the Sun is present. In other words, for another 5 billion years. As a result, everyone can use it abundantly.

Further, using solar energy can assist in reducing our electricity bills. When we use this energy, we will become less dependent on non-renewable sources of energy like petroleum and coal .

Moreover, we can utilize solar energy for a lot of purposes. One can produce electricity as well as heat. We use this energy in regions where we won’t require an electricity grid. Another advantage is that it is a clean fuel.

Using this energy will not result in pollution and thus, it won’t harm the environment. As a result, air pollution will significantly decrease. Both the government and individuals must try to promote and incorporate this energy in our daily lives.

This way, it can become the future of our world. It will make the world a greener and cleaner place as well. So, we must all try to switch to solar energy to make the world a better place.

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Conclusion of Essay On Solar Energy

Solar energy is the future of our upcoming generation. It is safe and a greener and economical alternative. Moreover, it can be replenished so it serves as a renewable source of energy. As a result, it does not cause pollution . Thus, we must try to use solar energy more and more to save our planet earth.

FAQ on Essay On Solar Energy

Question 1: What is the importance of solar energy?

Answer 1: Solar energy is the power from the sun. It is a vast, inexhaustible, and clean resource. We can use this energy directly to heat and light homes and businesses. Similarly, we can also produce electricity, and heat water, solar cooling, and a variety of other commercial and industrial uses.

Question 2: Is solar energy renewable energy?

Answer 2: Yes, solar energy is a renewable energy. Thus, we can use it as much as we want and benefit from it in ways more than one.

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Essay on Solar Energy

Power of the Sun

Solar power is leading the global shift towards sustainable energy by harnessing the sun’s inexhaustible energy. Its significance lies in its renewable nature and its potential to revolutionize our energy landscape. From ancient civilizations utilizing sunlight for warmth to cutting-edge photovoltaic technologies, this essay delves into the evolution of solar energy. By exploring its historical roots, technological advancements, environmental benefits, and economic implications, we aim to elucidate solar energy’s critical role in shaping a sustainable future.

Evolution of solar energy

The evolution of solar energy spans millennia, from ancient civilizations exploiting the sun’s warmth to modern technological advancements harnessing its power for electricity generation.

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• Ancient Utilization:

The utilization of solar energy traces back to ancient civilizations. Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans designed their buildings to capture the sun’s warmth during winter, showcasing an early understanding of passive solar design. Similarly, ancient Chinese, Indian, and Persian societies used solar architecture to heat water.

• Discovery of Photovoltaic Effect:

The foundation for contemporary solar technology was laid in the 19th century with the discovery of the photovoltaic effect. French physicist Alexandre Edmond Becquerel noted the creation of an electric current when specific materials were exposed to light in 1839. This phenomenon, known as the photovoltaic effect, laid the groundwork for developing solar cells.

• Early Solar Cells and Applications:

The first practical application of the photovoltaic effect came in 1954 when Bell Laboratories introduced the first commercially viable solar cell. Developed by scientists Gerald Pearson, Calvin Fuller, and Daryl Chapin, this early solar cell achieved a 4% efficiency. While initially expensive, these cells found niche applications, such as powering satellites, signaling a new era in space exploration.

• Solar Energy in Space:

The space race of the mid-20th century accelerated solar technology. Satellites, including the Vanguard 1 (1958) and the Nimbus series, extensively used solar cells for power generation. This demonstrated the reliability of solar technology and contributed to ongoing research, pushing the efficiency and affordability of solar cells.

• Grid-Connected Solar Power:

The 1970s saw the emergence of grid-connected solar power systems on Earth. These systems allowed homes and businesses to generate electricity from sunlight and feed excess power into the grid. However, the high cost of solar panels limited widespread adoption.

• Advancements in Photovoltaic Technology:

Subsequent decades witnessed significant advancements in photovoltaic technology. Ongoing research and development improved solar cell efficiency, reduced manufacturing costs, and increased durability. Thin-film solar cells, multi-junction solar cells, and other innovations further expanded the applicability of solar energy.

• Growth of Solar Photovoltaics:

The 21st century marked a remarkable surge in solar photovoltaic installations. Advances in manufacturing processes, government incentives, and growing environmental consciousness contributed to the widespread adoption of solar panels in residential, commercial, and utility-scale settings.

• Concentrated Solar Power (CSP):

Concentrated solar power (CSP) technologies have developed together with the growth of photovoltaics. In CSP systems, sunlight is directed onto a tiny area by mirrors or lenses, creating heat that can be converted into electrical power. These systems work very well for producing enormous amounts of electricity.

• Smart Grid Integration and Energy Storage:

Recent developments involve integrating solar power into smart grids and incorporating energy storage solutions. Smart grids enable better management of fluctuating solar power production, while advancements in energy storage, such as lithium-ion batteries, address the intermittent nature of solar energy, allowing for a more reliable electricity supply.

How Solar Energy Works

Let’s break down how solar energy works into steps:

• Sunlight as a Source: Solar energy begins with the sun, emitting vast amounts of radiant energy in photons. These photons travel through space and reach the Earth.
• Photovoltaic Effect (PV): Solar panels, typically made of silicon-based photovoltaic cells, are the foundation of most solar energy systems. When sunlight strikes these cells, it stimulates the photovoltaic effect, causing the cells to release electrons.
• Generation of Electricity: An electric current flows through the solar cell as a result of these electrons moving. The connected cells in a panel generate direct current (DC) power.
• Inverter Conversion: The inverter processes the direct current (DC) electricity from the solar panels because the majority of household equipment and the grid run on alternating current (AC). The inverter transforms the DC electricity into usable AC electricity, which matches the common electrical current found in homes and businesses.
• Usage and Storage: The electricity generated can be used immediately to power devices or can be sent to the electrical grid. Batteries can be used to store extra electricity for use at a later time when demand is lower than solar production. This way, power is always available even when the sun isn’t shining.
• Net Metering and Grid Interaction: Systems that are connected to the grid can recycle excess energy produced by solar panels back into it. Users obtain credits or rewards for the extra energy they give through a procedure known as net metering.
• Concentrated Solar Power (CSP): In some systems, particularly large-scale ones, mirrors or lenses concentrate sunlight onto a small area. This concentrated light is used to heat a fluid (often molten salt) that generates steam to drive turbines, producing electricity in a manner similar to traditional power plants.

Solar energy systems are a reliable and sustainable source of electricity. They work continuously in sunlight. The efficiency of solar panels depends on panel quality, weather conditions, and the sun’s angle. Advancements in solar technology have improved efficiency, durability, and affordability, driving widespread adoption from households to large installations.

Types of Solar Energy

Solar energy comes in various forms, each with unique technologies and applications. The two primary types are Photovoltaic (PV) Solar Power and Concentrated Solar Power (CSP).

• Photovoltaic (PV) Solar Power: Photovoltaic technology uses semiconductor materials like silicon to turn sunlight into power directly.

How it Works: Photons in the sunshine break electrons loose from their atoms when they strike the solar cells, creating an electric current.

Applications:

• Residential Solar Panels: PV panels on rooftops generate electricity for household use.
• Commercial and Industrial Installations: Larger PV arrays power businesses and industries.
• Utility-Scale Solar Farms: Large-scale installations contribute to the grid’s electricity supply.

Advantages:

• Modular and scalable installations.
• Low maintenance requirements.
• Applicable in various settings.
• Concentrated Solar Power (CSP): Concentrated solar power systems generate heat that can be converted into electricity by focusing sunlight onto a tiny area using mirrors or lenses.

How it Works: CSP systems concentrate sunlight to create high temperatures, typically used to produce steam that drives turbines connected to generators.

• Solar Thermal Power Plants: Large-scale facilities generate electricity for the grid.
• Industrial Processes: CSP can provide heat for industrial applications like desalination or chemical production.
• Solar Cookers: Small-scale CSP systems for cooking in off-grid areas.
• Capable of providing both electricity and heat.
• Storage systems can store heat for continuous power generation.
• Suitable for large-scale power generation.
• Thin-Film Solar Cells: Thin-film To produce energy, solar cells employ thin layers of semiconductor materials.

How it Works: Thin layers of semiconductor materials, such as cadmium telluride or amorphous silicon, absorb sunlight to produce an electric current.

• Flexible and lightweight, enabling integration into various surfaces.
• Used in building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV).
• Suitable for portable solar applications.
• Lower manufacturing costs compared to traditional PV cells.
• Adaptability to different surfaces and environments.
• Organic Photovoltaics (OPV): Organic photovoltaics use organic materials, like polymers, to convert sunlight into electricity.

How it Works: Organic materials absorb sunlight and create electron-hole pairs, generating an electric current.

• Flexible and lightweight, suitable for flexible electronics.
• Integration into fabrics and consumer goods.
• Emerging technology with potential for widespread use.
• Potential for low-cost, large-scale production.
• Flexibility and versatility in design and application.
• Solar Thermal Systems: Utilizing the sun’s energy, solar thermal systems generate heat that can be utilized for a number of things, including the production of electricity.

How it Works: Mirrors or lenses focus sunlight to generate heat, which can be used for space heating, water heating, or power generation.

• Space heating in residential and commercial buildings.
• Solar water heaters for residential and industrial use.
• Hybrid systems for combined electricity and heat production.
• Efficient for applications requiring heat.
• Storage options for continuous heat supply.

Importance of Solar Energy

Solar energy holds significant importance across various domains due to its multifaceted advantages and potential contributions:

• Sustainability: One resource that can be used forever is solar energy. Unlike finite fossil resources, the energy from the sun is abundant and freely available. Its sustainability guarantees a consistent and reliable energy source well into the future.
• Environmental Benefits: While fossil fuels contribute to air pollution and climate change, solar energy is pure and produces no greenhouse emissions throughout the electricity generation process. Solar power’s lower carbon emissions lessen climate change and its related environmental effects.
• Energy Independence: Harnessing solar energy reduces dependence on imported fossil fuels, thereby enhancing energy independence for nations. This independence strengthens energy security and reduces geopolitical tensions related to energy resources.
• Economic Advantages: Jobs related to solar power could be generated in a number of industries, including production, installation, maintenance, and research. With the advancement of technology and scaling up production, the cost of solar energy is decreasing, making it more affordable and economically viable.
• Accessible and Scalable: Solar energy systems can be installed at various scales, from small residential setups to large utility-scale installations. This versatility makes solar power accessible to urban and rural areas, providing electricity in remote locations without access to traditional power grids.
• Reduced Strain on Resources: Solar power reduces the strain on finite resources such as coal, oil, and natural gas. Using sunlight lessens the demand for these resources, contributing to their conservation for future generations.
• Grid Stability and Peak Demand: Solar energy can contribute to grid stability by providing power during peak demand periods. Solar power can supply electricity even when sunlight is unavailable when integrated with energy storage systems, enhancing the grid’s reliability.
• Community and Resilience: Solar power fosters community resilience by decentralizing energy production. Solar installations, especially when paired with energy storage, can provide essential electricity independently of centralized grids in emergencies or natural disasters.

Technological Advancements

Solar energy has made significant technological advancements. These innovations have made it more reliable and affordable to meet the growing demand for cleaner energy alternatives.

• Innovations in Solar Panel Efficiency:
• Thin-Film Technology: Thin-film technologies, such as cadmium telluride (CdTe) or copper indium gallium selenide (CIGS), have replaced traditional silicon-based solar panels due to their lightweight construction, flexibility, and lower manufacturing costs.
• Tandem Solar Cells: Tandem solar cells stack multiple layers of solar materials to capture a broader spectrum of sunlight. This allows for increased efficiency by maximizing the conversion of the sun into electricity.
• Perovskite Solar Cells: Perovskite-based solar cells have emerged as a promising alternative due to their low-cost production and high efficiency. Ongoing research aims to overcome stability challenges and commercialize this technology.
• Energy Storage Solutions:
• Advanced Battery Technologies: Energy storage is crucial to integrating solar power. By increasing storage capacity, shortening charging periods, and extending lifespans, battery technology advancements like lithium-ion batteries have addressed the sporadic nature of solar energy.
• Flow Batteries: Flow batteries, which store energy in liquid electrolytes, offer scalability and the ability to store large amounts of energy. When there is not as much sunlight, these batteries can supplement solar power by offering a reliable energy source.
• Smart Grid Integration and Smart Cities:
• Grid-Scale Solar Farms: Large solar farms connected to smart networks make effective solar energy distribution possible. Smart grids dynamically balance the supply and demand of electricity through the use of cutting-edge communication and control technology.
• Smart Inverters and Microgrids: Smart inverters help manage the flow of electricity, optimizing power quality and grid stability. Microgrids and decentralized energy systems empower communities to generate, store, and distribute solar energy locally, enhancing resilience and reliability.

Applications of Solar energy

• Residential Power Generation:

The use of solar energy in homes is among its most popular uses. Homeowners can mount solar panels on their rooftops to capture sunlight and produce electricity. As a result, there is less dependency on traditional power sources, and people may help create a more sustainable and clean energy infrastructure. Another residential use that uses solar thermal systems to heat water for domestic use is solar water heaters, which offer an energy-efficient substitute for conventional electric water heaters.

• Commercial and Industrial Use: Most commercial and industrial sectors use solar energy. Businesses can install solar panels to generate on-site power, reducing operational costs and environmental impact. Solar power is also harnessed for agricultural purposes, powering farm irrigation systems. This application enhances water efficiency and diminishes reliance on grid electricity, fostering sustainable agricultural practices.
• Solar Farms and Utility-Scale Power Plants: Large-scale electricity generation from solar farms and utility-scale installations contributes substantially to the power grid. These solar power plants serve to address the growing demand for electricity while lowering dependency on fossil fuels by supplying sustainable energy to businesses and communities. Additionally, solar power proves valuable in remote areas’ power supply, offering a sustainable solution for electrifying regions without access to traditional power infrastructure.
• Transportation:

Solar energy is increasingly integrated into various modes of transportation. Solar panels on electric vehicles and at charging stations extend the range of electric transportation and contribute to more sustainable mobility solutions. Solar-powered boats and aircraft also demonstrate the adaptability of solar energy in diverse transportation applications, showcasing its potential to reduce dependence on traditional fuel sources.

• Space Exploration:

Solar panels are a critical component of spacecraft and satellites, where the sun’s energy is harnessed in the vacuum of space. The reliability and efficiency of solar panels make them indispensable for powering instruments, communication devices, and other systems aboard spacecraft, enabling extended missions and exploration.

• Water Desalination:

Solar energy is utilized to power desalination plants in regions facing water scarcity. These plants convert seawater into freshwater, addressing water shortages and providing a sustainable solution to the growing demand for clean water in arid areas.

• Community and Rural Electrification:

Solar microgrids bring electricity to off-grid and rural areas, improving living standards and fostering economic development. This application of solar energy empowers communities with access to clean and reliable power, positively impacting education, healthcare, and overall quality of life.

• Smart Cities and Urban Planning:

Solar energy is integrated into smart cities and urban planning initiatives through applications like solar street lights and solar-powered infrastructure. Energy-efficient lighting powered by solar panels enhances safety and reduces energy consumption in urban areas, contributing to sustainable urban development and reducing the environmental footprint of cities.

Case Studies

Case study 1: the solarcity microgrid in ta’u, american samoa.

In 2016, Tesla (now part of Tesla, Inc.) collaborated with SolarCity to develop a solar microgrid on the remote island of Ta’u in American Samoa. The project aimed to reduce the island’s dependency on imported diesel fuel for electricity generation.

Implementation:

SolarCity installed a 1.4-megawatt solar array of 5,328 solar panels and 60 Tesla Powerpacks for energy storage. The microgrid was designed to meet nearly 100% of the island’s energy needs during daylight hours, with excess energy stored for nighttime use. The transition to solar energy significantly reduced the island’s reliance on diesel generators.

• The microgrid has successfully demonstrated the feasibility and reliability of solar energy in a remote location, reducing diesel consumption by about 109,500 gallons per year.
• Dependence on fossil fuels decreased, resulting in a more sustainable and environmentally friendly energy solution.
• The project is a model for other islands and remote communities seeking energy independence.

Case Study 2: The Noor Solar Complex in Ouarzazate, Morocco

The Noor Solar Complex near Ouarzazate in Morocco is one of the world’s largest concentrated solar power (CSP) projects. It aims to harness solar energy to meet the country’s growing energy demands.

This solar power complex has multiple phases, with the first completed in 2016. It covers thousands of acres, including parabolic troughs and a solar power tower. The parabolic troughs heat a transfer fluid, which produces steam to drive turbines. The power tower uses mirrors to focus sunlight onto a central receiver.

• The Noor Solar Complex contributes significantly to Morocco’s renewable energy goals, reducing the country’s reliance on fossil fuels.
• The project has a total capacity of over 500 megawatts, making it a substantial and reliable source of clean energy.
• Implementing CSP technology demonstrates the scalability and potential of concentrated solar power in large-scale electricity generation.

Case Study 3: Rooftop Solar in California, USA

California has been at the forefront of adopting rooftop solar installations, with numerous residential and commercial properties embracing solar panels to generate clean energy.

Through various incentive programs, net metering policies, and decreasing solar panel costs, many Californians have installed rooftop solar systems. The state encourages solar adoption, providing financial incentives and support to individuals and businesses investing in solar energy.

• California has emerged as a leader in the production of solar energy, generating a sizable amount of its electricity from solar sources.
• Both individual energy savings and the state’s total decrease in greenhouse gas emissions are facilitated by rooftop solar systems.
• The success of California’s rooftop solar initiatives is a model for other regions seeking to promote decentralized solar power generation.

Solar energy’s versatility spans residential, commercial, and industrial sectors, revolutionizing power generation and fostering sustainability. From rooftop panels to utility-scale plants, its role in reducing reliance on conventional sources and mitigating environmental impact is pivotal. Transportation, space exploration, and water desalination applications highlight its diverse capabilities. Integrating solar energy into smart cities and rural electrification underscores its potential for widespread positive impact. Continual technological advancements promise a brighter, cleaner future powered by the sun.

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Essay on Solar Energy

List of essays on solar energy in english, essay on solar energy – essay 1 (250 words), essay on solar energy – essay 2 (300 words), essay on solar energy – essay 3 (400 words), essay on solar energy – essay 4 (500 words), essay on solar energy – uses and methods – essay 5 (750 words), essay on solar energy – essay 6 (750 words), essay on solar energy – advantages and disadvantages – essay 7 (1000 words).

Solar energy is a form of renewable energy that is available without any limit and can be used for our need. Over decades and centuries, this type of energy is being used by living beings in one way or another to lead a smooth life.

Sun is the source of solar energy and this energy cannot be destroyed. This non-conventional form of energy does not pollute or affect any other things, which is also the reason to promote the use of solar energy in every field.

Uses of Solar Energy:

Solar energy is being used by the plants to make food through the process photosynthesis. This a natural process where plants along with carbon dioxide, water etc., prepare food using solar energy. This, in turn, will help us in getting healthier and tastier food for consumption. This is the natural way in which solar energy is utilized.

This growing world of technology and development has made the possibility of using this abundant form of energy in different technologically benefitting ways. Initially, the energy from the sun is trapped inside a cell called solar cell and is stored in them for using it as a replacement for electricity and other purposes.

This solar energy in the cell can be used to heat water, as a mode of energy to power up different equipment, etc., which are readily accessible in the market.

An advantage of this form of energy is that it is cost effective to use such products. Even though the initial installation costs are comparably higher, their maintenance and other expenses are very low.

Promoting the use of solar energy in replacement with many other technologies will help in the reduction of pollution as well as the destruction of many other non-renewable energies.

Solar energy is a renewable form of energy gotten from the sun that can be utilized for numerous purposes by humans. We can use solar energy in many different ways in our daily life, like for producing electricity, cooking food, as well as heating water.

Solar energy involves a very simple technique that reduces the expenses of energy consumption in comparison to the other sources of energy. It is available free of cost for all the people on earth.

Benefits of using Solar Energy:

The following are the benefits of using solar energy:

i. Solar energy is obtainable to use without any cost. Although you can buy devices and equipment for producing solar energy through sunrays, still its cost is quite less in comparison to our cost of energy requirements.

ii. Solar energy can be utilized in the remote and rural regions also where it is generally quite costly to set up an electric power grid.

iii. Solar energy might be widely utilized for charging equipment like solar cell batteries and calculators that need very less amount of energy.

iv. Solar energy does not create any type of pollution.

v. It is an unlimited renewable energy’s source that will never end.

Drawbacks of using Solar Energy

The following are the drawbacks of using solar energy:

i. You can use it during the daytime when there is abundant sunlight obtainable.

ii. The expenses of setting up panels and solar cells for producing solar energy are quite high.

iii. The quantity of energy produced in the solar power grid is quite less in comparison to the current power grids.

iv. You need big size land for setting the plants of solar energy for seizing the energy arriving through the sun.

The utilization of solar energy can become a boon to lots of people. However, the high cost of its equipment and devices stop people from using it. The government should take some steps to reduce the cost of solar energy’s equipment so that people can make the best use of it for their benefits.

The Sun is an almost endless source of energy that radiates over the Earth every day. This great heat lamp in the sky can help us gather the solar energy we need to further humanity towards their new goals. The frontier for our use of solar energy has opened up and every day brings a new idea or invention.

Being a student, I get my fair share of information from the faculty professors about the current state of our solar energy consumption and it brings me comfort to know that people have created several new inventions and concepts for the gathering of this endless source of heat and light. Since I am all for the “green revolution” in technology and architecture I will promote some of those concepts in this essay.

Photovoltaic Systems:

The photovoltaic systems for gathering solar energy uses several components in its arrangement. The most notable feature of this system is the solar panel. The panel collects the solar energy and turns it into DC current and then the solar energy converter transforms this into usable AC current. The system is practical and it has appeared on many households and businesses all over the world.

Concentrated Solar Power:

This system is for transforming solar energy into electricity utilizes the heath in sunlight. The system is based around the use of many reflective mirrors that concentrate the solar energy into one beam of light that is then used to power a classical power plant with turbines. This system is implemented in large-scale operations and it is effective in producing vast amounts of electricity like conventional power plants.

Solar Water Heating:

Solar water heating is one of those systems for solar energy collection that has been around for ages. Well, at least as long as we have been using different types of vessel, like black barrels, to heat up the water for every- day use. The new systems have gone through a technological remake and they are successfully utilized in many homes to heat all the water for the household. The solar energy is collected through solar heat transformers that then heat up water in the system.

Conclusion:

Solar energy is a blessing from the sky that can help us transform urban life and make more sustainable houses and families. The systems mentioned here are the main principles behind our use of solar energy and they are being worked on and transformed every day so we can use the power of the sun to its full potential.

The energy which we receive from the Sun in the form of heat and light is called solar energy. It is the driver of everything from the Earth’s climate to all forms of life on the Earth. Since the ancient times, we have been using solar energy for our own use. However, the researchers feel that we are yet to optimally use the solar energy.

Use of Solar Energy in Ancient Era:

The ancient people known to have executed the utilization of solar energy on a substantial scale were the Ancient Egyptians, who utilized it to warm their homes. They structured and assembled their homes with the goal that the structures hid away the sun’s warmth amid the day and afterwards discharged it around evening time. Their building procedures kept their homes hotter during the evening, as well as controlled a cooler temperature inside on hot days. Romans and Native Americans both utilized comparable innovations to warm their homes using solar energy, and additionally different sorts of structures like Roman bathhouses.

In the third century B.C., the Greeks left a mark on the world not for utilizing solar energy for local solace, but rather, supposedly, as a weapon of mass destruction. As per the researchers, a Roman maritime power was cruising to remove the Greek bastion of Syracuse. With the assistance of the Archimedes, the inventor, the Greeks are accounted for to have utilized exceptionally cleaned metal shields as mirrors to enhance and centre the beams of the sun and set fire to the propelling boats.

Advantages of Solar Energy:

The major advantage of solar energy is that it is a renewable source. It is available to us as long as the Sun is present which is expected to be for another 5 billion years. Hence it can be used abundantly for the benefit of everyone.

Secondly, the use of solar energy can also help us reduce our electricity bills. Moreover, the use of solar energy can help us reduce our dependency on non-renewable sources of energy such as coal and petroleum. Also, solar energy can be utilized for different purposes. You can produce electricity as well as heat. Solar energy can be utilized to create power in regions without the requirement of an electricity grid. Solar energy can likewise be coordinated into the materials utilized for structures.

Another advantage of solar energy is that it is a clean fuel. Use of solar energy does not cause any pollution and hence it is not harmful to the environment. Use of solar energy can help us reduce air pollution which for India, is a primary concern as on date. Also, India is a country having abundant sunlight all-round the year, hence, tapping of sunlight is not an issue. Of late, there has been an increase in the use of solar energy by the government as well as individuals. Efforts are on to reduce the setup costs of solar plants so as to help people move towards this clean and efficient fuel. Solar energy is the future of the country as it is the only energy which can help us overcome the environmental and energy-related issues our country has been facing since the last few years.

What is Solar Energy?

Solar energy is the energy contained in the sunlight in the form of photons. Life on earth is not possible without solar energy. All the microorganisms and single-celled organisms came into existence with the help of solar energy.

Plants have been using solar energy since the beginning. The leaves trap the solar energy and use it in the process of photosynthesis to prepare food. In this way, solar energy plays an essential role in the functioning of the food pyramid.

Solar energy is used by all the organisms, including both plants and animals. And human beings are no exceptions. First of all, the daylight brought in by the solar energy drives away the darkness and helps us finish all the chores easily.

Solar energy produces enough heat to dry out the washed clothes. It keeps us warm in the winters. Solar energy also plays an important role in diminishing the humidity and killing the harmful germs. Morning sunlight is known to strengthen our bones, improve our immunity, and help control many skin ailments.

On a larger level, solar energy has multiple other uses. For instance, concentrated solar power allows us to cook food. By converting the sunlight into accumulated solar energy, we can also produce electricity and charge our electrical devices.

Plus Points of Using Solar Energy:

But why prefer solar power when we have other sources of energy? The reasons are quite convincing actually. To begin with, the sun is a ball of fire. This fire is a result of the fusion reaction. That means, it is not going to burn out for millions of years to come.

Solar energy is a renewable form of energy which keeps getting replenished. So, it is safe to say that, depending on solar power would not deplete the earth of its natural resources. Moreover, using solar energy is an eco-friendly option for all of us, as it doesn’t cause any kind of pollution.

Solar energy offers as a great substitute to the other non-renewable resources, such as coal, wood, mineral oils, fossil fuels, etc. This puts a lesser load on the planet earth in various ways. Non-renewable sources are already getting exhausted at a rapid rate. They also cause pollution and hamper the life of all the living beings.

Most of all, meeting the needs with solar power also costs less. It is a cheaper and economical source of energy when compared to other conventional forms of energy. This is the reason why many developed countries are finally adopting a lifestyle based on solar power.

Methods to Use Solar Energy:

Solar energy can be trapped in several ways. One of the most effective technology is the use of solar power plants. These power plants are specifically designed for the purpose of electricity production on a larger level. Other appliances and technologies that work on solar energy are solar cookers, solar heaters, and solar cells. All these three types of solar appliances would be discussed one by one.

Starting with the solar cookers, these are the most revolutionary methods of cooking nowadays. Instead of using conventional fuels, such as gas, kerosene, or wood, solar cookers plainly work with the help of sunlight. These cookers have a glass lid which captures and concentrates all the sun rays to produce heat and cook food. Solar cookers are eco-friendly and economical means of cooking.

Solar heaters are the appliances that help in heating the water with solar energy. These devices work on the fluid-based technology. That means, either air or an anti-freezing fluid is put into the collector so that the water can be heated without any electricity.

The last and the third form is solar cells. These solar cells directly convert the solar light into electricity. Solar cells are especially popular in the areas where the supply from the power grid is less available. Many calculators, wrist watches, and similar systems work with this technology. Not only that, but the electricity produced by solar panels can also be stored in rechargeable solar batteries.

Solar energy is the future of the next generation. It is a safer, greener, and economical way of living life. It can be replenished and is a renewable source of energy which causes no pollution in the atmosphere. Solar energy also puts less burden on the other forms of non-renewable resources and protects the earth from various types of pollutions. As much as possible, we should all switch to using appliances based on solar power and save our planet earth.

Introduction:

Solar energy can simply be said to be the radiant heat and light that the sun produces and is harnessed through the use of a variety of technologies that are ever-evolving like photovoltaic, solar heating, solar architecture, thermal energy, artificial photosynthesis and power plants of molten salt. Solar energy is one very vital renewable energy source and the technologies of solar energy are widely categorized as either active solar or passive solar based on the manner of capture and distribution of the solar energy and how the solar energy is converted to solar power.

The techniques of active solar include using water heating that is solar, solar power that is concentrated and photovoltaic systems to harness solar energy. The techniques of passive solar include the design of space that will circulate air naturally, selection of materials that have light dispersing or thermal mass properties that are favourable and the orientation of a building towards the sun. Solar energy is a very appealing electricity source because solar energy is readily available in large magnitude. Research has shown that while the total consumption of energy all over the world annually is 559.8 EJ, the potential energy generation of solar energy is 1.575 EJ to 49,837 EJ which is a lot more than what is needed.

Potential of Solar Energy:

The potential of solar energy which can be used is quite different from the quantity of solar energy that is present close to the planet earth’s surface as a result of different factors like time variation, geography, available land and cloud cover, all limit the quantity of energy that can be acquired through solar sources.

The potential of solar energy is affected by geography because all the areas very close to equator get a greater quantity of radiation from the sun. The potential of solar energy can be greatly improved following the sun’s position through using photovoltaic in the areas that are not close to equator.

The potential of solar energy is affected by time variation because there is usually little or no solar radiation during the night on the earth’s surface that the solar panels can absorb. The potential of solar energy is also affected by cloud cover because incoming light can be blocked by clouds preventing it from reaching the earth’s surface from sun and this goes a long way in the reduction of the available light that solar cells can use.

The potential of solar energy is also affected by land availability because we can only set solar panels up for use on the land usually not in use and very suitable for the foxing of solar panels. It has been discovered that very suitable place to fix solar cells are roofs, since a lot of people have come to the realization that they also can directly collect energy from their houses through this means. We can also establish solar plants on areas of land which are not in use for business or other things.

Urban Planning and Architecture:

The design of buildings has been greatly influenced by sunlight ever since architectural history began. Methods of urban planning and solar architecture that is advanced were first used by the Chinese and Greeks; they made the orientation of the buildings they constructed to the south so that warmth and light can be provided.

Features of solar architecture like compact proportion ( ratio of surface area and volume), orientation, thermal mass and selective shading are all tailored to that particular environment and local climate so that spaces that are well can be produced and the building remains in a temperature range that is very comfortable. Ventilation systems, heating and solar lighting are all tied together in the solar design.

In the times of global warming and climate change as a result of the pollution of the atmosphere through the emission of smoke from the burning of fossil fuels, it is very important that alternative sources of energy that are renewable are gotten. Solar energy is one energy source that does not negatively affect the environment and cannot be exhausted.

When we develop solar energy and its technologies that are clean, inexhaustible and affordable, we are bound to enjoy benefits that are huge and long-term. Solar energy can go a very long way in increasing the energy security of a country as a result of reliance on inexhaustible, indigenous and largely non-import resource, reduce pollution, enhance sustainability, lower the prices of fossil fuels and lower the price and cost of curbing global warming. All of these advantages of solar energy are global.

Solar energy is basically energy from the sun and is received on earth and can be transformed into other forms of energy. Solar energy is usually used to generate electric or thermal energy. The sun provides energy that influences the climate on earth and enables the sustenance of all forms of life. It is a natural source of energy and is freely available. Research into solar energy has been done in attempts to discover methods of harvesting energy from the sun and utilizing it. Some forms of energy that are already in use are in existence due to the sun. An example is wind energy, which is derived from the wind yet in nature, wind develops due to the highs and lows in temperature. The sun plays a central role in terms of energy that is being used in the world.

Applications of Solar Energy:

In the modern world, there are important applications of solar energy that are being used. Applications of solar energy are both domestic and industrial. Domestic uses of solar energy do not require harvesting large amount of solar energy compared to the industrial uses. Domestic applications include solar cookers, solar hot water systems and air conditioners whereas industrial applications of solar energy include electricity production.

Solar cooking is one of the applications in which solar energy is harvested and redirected to produce heat energy for cooking purposes. Solar water heaters have become common application that is being used everywhere. Water heating systems have been designed such that they harvest heating energy from the sun. The same principles have been applied in air conditioning, space cooling and heating and in solar vehicles. There has been generation of electricity from solar energy that enables lighting and other functions.

With the constantly growing advancements in technology and industrialization, there will be increased discovery in the applications of solar energy. Solar energy can pretty much be important in everything it is just that we do not know how to apply it.

Solar energy has been used widely across the world and its importance has been realized. Solar energy is inexhaustible and renewable. Solar energy will never get depleted at any point in life and that is why it is an important source of energy in the world. The applications of solar energy continually use energy that is renewable without much struggle.

Solar energy is free of expenses because it is naturally acquired. The only costs incurred are those related to the applications and structuring. However, the cost of these equipment is lower compared to the cost of using other sources of energy.

Solar energy does not cause any form of environmental pollution. The process of generating solar energy does not involve any chemicals or products that may cause the pollution of the environment. It is a clean form of energy and its use promotes environmental cleanliness.

Due to the ease of availability of solar energy, it can be used in both rural and urban areas. In rural areas, people are usually challenged because installation of electricity is a problem but with the use of solar energy, most people have an access to electricity and saves on the cost.

Disadvantages of Solar Energy:

In as much as solar energy is important and advantageous, there are some factors that render it disadvantageous. One of those factors is the limitation to daytime use. Solar energy can only be maximized during the day because the sun shines at daytime. Also, the equipment used to harvest solar energy are expensive and delicate. Thee equipment include panels, solar collectors and solar cells. All these equipment are very delicate and require much care to avoid damaging them because the replacement costs are high.

Solar energy require large spaces to collect enough energy for use in various solar applications. The collection of solar energy has to cover a large area through the use of large solar panels, solar collectors and cells so that more adequate energy can be collected.

Solar energy is dependent on the sun and cannot be deployed where there is minimal sunshine. This means that solar energy is limited to areas with ample amounts of sun energy. During seasons like winter, the use of solar energy is totally impossible and therefore other forms of energy have to be sought.

Solar energy can never be an independent source of energy in the world. It is basically an alternative source of energy upon convenience i.e., during summer, specifically during the day. In your summer house you can opt to use solar energy and then use electricity during the rest of the seasons. For those countries who do not experience seasonal changes in climate, it is very convenient and it can be an independent source of energy for them.

The use of solar energy is specific to devices that do not consume large amounts of current e.g., in calculators.

Solar energy is an important source of energy. Advancements in technology has led to innovations of applications of solar energy that are of great help to human beings. It has been a great era of modern society whereby solar energy has been appreciated through its applications. The uses of solar energy are similar to those of other sources of energy. Everything has its pros and cons and solar energy is no different. The pros of solar energy outweigh the cons and that is why its use has been maintained over the years. However, the limitations of solar energy should not be ignored. These limitations are somehow disrupting the expansion of solar energy use in the world. It is important that solar energy is used widely as a form of energy because of its environmental-friendly characteristic. Other forms of energy especially fuels highly pollute the environment. Not only does saving the environment a priority in using solar energy but also the fact that solar energy is free, renewable and inexhaustible. What a great deal?

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Essay on Solar Energy 500+ Words

In today’s world, one topic that’s shining brighter than ever is Solar Energy. It’s not just about the sun giving us light during the day; it’s also about how we can use that sunlight to power our homes, schools, and even our entire planet. In this essay, we’ll explore the amazing world of Solar Energy and why it’s so important for our future.

Harnessing the Power of the Sun

Solar Energy is all about capturing the energy from the sun and turning it into electricity. Think about how the sun warms you on a cold day. Now imagine if we could turn that warmth into electricity to power our homes and gadgets. Solar panels, which are made up of tiny cells, do just that. When sunlight hits these cells, it creates electricity. That’s like magic, right?

Solar Energy Is Clean and Green

One of the coolest things about Solar Energy is that it’s super clean. Unlike some other sources of energy, like coal or gas, it doesn’t produce harmful pollution or greenhouse gases that harm our planet. Solar Energy helps keep our air clean and our planet healthy. That’s why it’s often called “green energy.”

Saving Money with Solar Power

You might be wondering, “How can Solar Energy benefit me?” Well, it can save you money! When you use solar panels to power your home, you don’t need to rely on expensive electricity from the grid. Instead, you generate your own power from the sun, which means lower electricity bills. Plus, some places even offer incentives and tax breaks for using solar panels, so it’s a win-win!

Solar Energy Around the World

Solar Energy isn’t just for one country; it’s for the entire world. Many countries are now using Solar Energy to reduce their reliance on fossil fuels. In fact, some countries get a significant portion of their electricity from the sun. That means fewer greenhouse gases and a healthier planet for everyone.

Solar Energy in Space

Believe it or not, Solar Energy is even used in outer space! Spacecraft and satellites use solar panels to power their missions. Since there’s no traditional electricity source in space, the sun becomes their main source of energy. Solar panels are like the sun’s gift to exploring the cosmos.

Challenges and Solutions

While Solar Energy is fantastic, it does come with some challenges. For example, it can be expensive to install solar panels. But don’t worry; scientists and engineers are always working to make solar technology more affordable and efficient. As technology improves, the cost of solar panels continues to drop.

Solar Energy’s Role in a Brighter Future

Imagine a world where most of our electricity comes from the sun. It would be a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable world. Solar Energy can help reduce our dependence on fossil fuels, slow down climate change, and create a brighter future for all living creatures on Earth.

Conclusion of Essay on Solar Energy

In conclusion, Solar Energy is a powerful and essential source of energy for our planet’s future. It’s clean, green, and can save us money. Solar Energy is not limited by borders; it’s for everyone, everywhere. As we face the challenges of the 21st century, Solar Energy lights the path to a more sustainable and hopeful future. So, let’s embrace this incredible gift from the sun and shine a brighter light on the world.

Also Check: The Essay on Essay: All you need to know

Essay on Solar Energy

Students are often asked to write an essay on Solar Energy in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Solar Energy

Introduction to solar energy.

Solar energy is power from the sun. It’s a renewable resource, meaning it won’t run out. It’s also clean, producing no pollutants.

How Solar Energy Works

Solar panels capture sunlight. The cells in the panels turn this into electricity. This electricity can power homes, schools, and more.

Benefits of Solar Energy

Solar energy is good for the environment. It reduces reliance on fossil fuels, which cause pollution. It’s also free after installation, saving money.

Solar energy is a clean, renewable power source. It’s an excellent choice for a sustainable future.

250 Words Essay on Solar Energy

Introduction.

Solar energy, a renewable and abundant source of power, is harnessed from the sun’s rays. Its utilization has been a topic of global interest due to the escalating need for sustainable energy sources.

Working of Solar Energy

Solar power works by converting sunlight into electricity. Photovoltaic (PV) cells, composed of semiconductor materials, absorb photons from sunlight. This absorption instigates an electric field across the layers, causing electricity to flow.

Advantages of Solar Energy

Solar energy offers numerous benefits. It is a renewable resource, unlike fossil fuels which are finite. It reduces electricity bills as sunlight is free. Moreover, solar power systems can sell surplus energy back to the grid. It also has minimal environmental impact, producing no greenhouse gases during operation.

Challenges in Solar Energy

Despite its advantages, solar energy has some obstacles. The initial cost of solar panels and installation is high, though it pays off over time. Solar power is also dependent on weather conditions and daylight hours, making it less reliable in certain regions or times.

Future of Solar Energy

The future of solar energy is promising. With advancements in technology, the efficiency of solar panels is improving, and costs are decreasing. Researchers are exploring ways to store solar energy effectively, making it more reliable.

500 Words Essay on Solar Energy

Introduction: embracing the sun.

Solar energy, the abundant, clean, and renewable source of power, is the beacon of hope in our quest for sustainable energy solutions. It is harnessed using a variety of technologies, such as solar photovoltaic cells and solar thermal collectors, which convert the sun’s rays into usable electricity or heat.

The Science Behind Solar Energy

The sun emits photons, which are particles of light. When these photons hit a solar cell, they knock electrons loose from their atoms. When conductors are attached to the positive and negative sides of a cell, it forms an electrical circuit. When electrons flow through such a circuit, they generate electricity. This process of converting light (photons) to electricity (voltage) is called the photovoltaic effect.

Challenges in Harnessing Solar Energy

Despite its numerous advantages, solar energy is not without its challenges. The most significant constraint is the intermittent nature of solar power. Solar energy production is dependent on sunlight, which is not available during the night and can be less reliable during cloudy weather or in less sunny regions. To counter this, energy storage systems such as batteries are used, but these can add significant costs and technical complexities.

The Future of Solar Energy

As technology continues to advance, the efficiency of solar energy systems will undoubtedly improve. A promising area of research is perovskite solar cells, which are potentially cheaper and more efficient than current silicon-based cells. Moreover, the integration of solar power with other renewable sources and the development of smart grids can help overcome the issues of intermittency.

Conclusion: Towards a Solar-Powered Future

Despite the obstacles, the benefits of solar energy far outweigh its drawbacks. Its potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, provide energy security, and create jobs, all while harnessing a resource that is both abundant and free, makes it an essential component of our sustainable energy future.

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Solar Energy Essay | Essay on Solar Energy for Students and Children in English

February 13, 2024 by Veerendra

Essay on Solar Energy: The energy we get from the sun is called solar energy. Solar energy is a renewable energy because it will never end as long as the sun remains. Solar energy is also pollution-free because there are no harmful gases, chemicals, and fly ash produced. Solar energy is the energy from the sun that is converted into thermal or electrical energy with the help of photovoltaic cells. The production cost of solar energy is zero. A photovoltaic cell can produce electricity even in low sunlight so there is no cut in energy even on a rainy or cloudy day.

You can read more  Essay Writing  about articles, events, people, sports, technology many more.

Long and Short Essay on Solar Energy for Students and Kids in English

We have provided a few essays on the topic of Solar Energy. There is one long essay of 500 words; a short essay of 150 words; and ten lines on the topic of Solar Energy.

Long Essay on Solar Energy in English 500 words

Such long essays are usually helpful for students studying in classes 7, 8, 9, and 10. They may be asked to write these essays for assignments and exams.

Solar energy is a very popular form of energy nowadays. There are so many houses, shops, offices, schools, and colleges who use solar energy to fulfill their need for electricity. Solar energy is the energy which we get from the sun and converted into thermal or electrical energy with the help of photovoltaic cell. Solar energy is a renewable energy because it will never end as long as the sun remains. Solar energy also a pollution-free energy because there are no harmful gases, chemicals, fly ash produced during the production of solar energy.

When sunlight comes to earth and falls on a photovoltaic cell it generates electricity by an electronic process and the electric energy stores in the batteries in chemical process and can be used to supply power anything from a small electronic gadget such as calculators and road signs up to homes and large commercial businesses. As pollution is a very big problem in recent times so the Solar energy is producing a large number in many large countries to keep the environment clean and air pollution-free. Also, some countries announced that their citizens have to install the solar panels on the rooftop of their house or have to plant trees. Solar energy is not only pollution-free energy but also its maintenance cost is very low so to maintain a solar power plant less manpower is required than a thermal power plant. Also, one can set up solar panels on the rooftop of the house or office. To get rid of the pollution, which is a global problem in recent days and we need to shift from non-renewable energy to renewable energy like solar energy. If one sets up a solar panel in the rooftop of the house, office the annual charges of the electricity will reduce.

With all of these advantages, there are also some disadvantages when we use solar energy. The first disadvantage of using solar energy is that its initial setup cost is very high. To store the solar energy in a large number one needs a personal room for the batteries. If the solar panel damages one has to replace it with a new one if the warranty period of the panel expires, and the price of a new solar panel is high. When the batteries are damaged one has to replace the batteries and it will pollute the environment chemically because the batteries store the electrical energy in the chemical form. The changing cost of a battery is very high. If a person sets up solar panels in house or office, he must have to hire a solar panel specialist if there any problem occurs in the solar system. Even though there are some problems solar panels will save our money as well as the environment.

Short Essay on Solar Energy in English 150 words

Solar energy is the energy that we get from the sun and converted into thermal or electrical energy. Solar energy is a renewable energy because it will never end as long as the sun remains. Solar energy is also pollution-free because there will be no pollution occurring while producing solar energy. Solar energy is not only pollution-free energy but also its maintenance cost is very low so to maintain a solar power plant less manpower is required than others. Also, one can get a non-stop power supply even in the rainy season with the help of solar panels. There is also some disadvantage of using solar energy like the initial setup cost of panels and battery is very high. To store the solar energy in a large number one needs a personal room for the batteries. It pollutes the environment chemically.

10 Lines on Solar Energy Essay 150 words

• Solar energy is the energy that we get from the sun and converted into thermal or electrical energy.
• Solar energy is renewable and pollution-free energy.
• When sunlight falls on a photovoltaic cell it generates electricity by an electronic process and the electric energy stores in the batteries in the chemical process.
• The maintenance cost of a solar energy plant is very low.
• One can get a non-stop power supply even in the rainy season with the help of solar panels.
• some disadvantages of using solar energy like the initial setup cost of panels and battery is very high.
• If the solar panel damages one has to replace it.
• When the batteries are damaged one has to replace the batteries and it will pollute the environment chemically.
• Even though there are some problems solar panels will save our money as well as the environment.

Frequently Asked Questions Solar Energy Essay

Question 1. What is solar energy?

Answer: Solar energy is the energy that we get from the sun and converted into thermal or electrical energy.

Question 2. Is solar energy renewable energy?

Answer: Yes, solar energy is renewable energy.

Question 3. Does solar energy pollute nature?

Answer: No, solar energy does not pollute nature.

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Solar Energy and Its Impact on Society Essay

• To find inspiration for your paper and overcome writer’s block
• As a source of information (ensure proper referencing)
• As a template for you assignment

Technological Determinism

Social constructivism.

Bibliography

The utility of solar energy is perhaps one of the most important technological advances in recent history. Solar energy represents a form of renewable energy that will prove to be most beneficial especially in light of the energy crisis faced by many nations.

Over time the consumption of non-renewable energy has been problematic and is one that has had devastating economic effects on numerous countries throughout the world. In examining the impact of solar energy on the world, it is prudent that we create a theoretical framework for such an examination. This paper will examine solar energy utilizing the theoretical constructs of technological determinism and social constructivism. It will also view technology as a neutral entity. I will begin by first introducing the theoretical constructs and then establishing a relationship between the constructs and solar energy.

Technology continues to improve all aspects of the human experience. Developments in medical, communicative, media, and research technologies have improved people’s quality of life. While for most Americans this is true, some people are being left behind and the digital divide continues to separate the informed from the uniformed. There are several reasons why this problem exists and this research will try to explain why it occurs.

The father of technological determinism is Marshall McLuhan, a scientist from Canada who studied media and its different forms and uses. He studied the way individuals receive messages and the medium that delivered the message. From this, he developed several theories about different mediums and their effectiveness. He viewed technology as an extension of man. He believed that the wheel was the extension of our feet, the hammer was an extension of our hands, and technology is the extension of our mind and mentality.

McLuhan said, “The medium is the message.” 1 He thought that the medium in which an individual received the information was more important than the information itself. The medium communicates the message in a way that will affect the listener. In some instances, the medium increases the chance of connection and just the opposite in others. Radio, television, and the Internet all have changed how we receive information and process it.

McLuhan believed this was the most important factor for a receiver to remember a message and pass it along to other individuals to become opinion leaders in society. McLuhan also felt a new medium would come along and would not only affect the conscious level but it would change patterns of perceptions. This holds on technologies such as the Internet. Using a computer to seek and find information has revolutionized how we live in society. It is important to note whether or not that this effect is positive or negative.

Other researchers such as Hank Bromley thought that technology moves and that people cannot change a direction of technology. The only option available to individuals is to adapt to the changing technology. He said, “…new technologies arise as natural consequences of existing ones, with little social control of the course of development, and that the impact of new technologies is again a consequence of the features of the technology itself, with the outcomes largely insusceptible to human control.” 2 He felt that technology in many ways controls itself and that society has little to do with the development of new technologies. He felt that we adapt to the changing technology and use it to fit our needs and the needs of society. He felt that technology evolves throughout our existence from one medium to the next and that humans have very little control over this process. He thought that technology continues to grow and build upon itself rather than being a new type of media. 3

Social Constructivists, on the other hand, view all of our knowledge and reality as “constructed” since these are actively created by social relationships and interactions. Thus, Social constructivism argues that technology is meaningful in human development only when it has a significant relationship with human beings.

Feenberg (1982) is often regarded as a strict social constructivist. His main commentary on the use of technology was that technology is nothing but a means of achieving the goals human beings set. Thus, human beings’ desires are ahead of emerging technology, not vise versa. It is a human ideology that drives technological progress. Thus, social constructivists argue that technology is completely controlled by human action and is given its meaning through selecting how, when, and why it will be used. Feenberg discusses the notion of the use of the Internet as a political tool 4 but this same concept can be extended to include the use of solar energy.

When extended, Feenberg’s notion can be extended to mean no matter how good the concept of utilizing solar energy may be, it is of no use unless individuals use it in their daily lives. Thus, unlike Technological Determinism, the presence of solar energy as an alternative energy source does not necessitate its use.

After having reviewed the use of solar energy under the basic tenets of both technological determinism and social constructivism one can see that solar energy represents a renewable source of energy that is meant to augment the present sources of energy. It is not a source of energy that is meant to replace the existing sources. It proves to be valuable in that it utilizes technology in a manner that proves to be both beneficial to humans and one that holds the potential to solve the current energy crisis. The technological determinists view solar energy as a mere extension of the capabilities of man while the social constructionists view it as only being meaningful when it can be utilized by man.

The technological deterministic view of solar energy is most practical and offers potential for the use which unsurpassed that of any other form of renewable energy. In this vein, solar energy can be used as a source of energy for some of the fundamental needs and can be used to provide energy for residential & holiday homes, commercial properties, Central Power Stations, industrial applications, water pumping, lighting, and heating in the developing nations. In proving energy for residential and holiday homes, solar energy can be utilized to provide energy during the day to power small appliances such as televisions, microwaves, fluorescent lamps, etc.

The use of solar energy in commercial properties requires special solar panels to facilitate the use of solar energy. In terms of central power stations, solar energy can be utilized in the same manner as conventional energy sources. Currently, there are logistic problems with its utility in that it can only span a relatively small distance and can only be distributed in small aggregate amounts. Its use in central power stations is limited to pilot studies in the United States, Italy, and Spain. 5 In examining the utility of solar energy we can see that it represents an extension of the capabilities of man but with more advanced studies it can be made practical for the use by the majority of individuals on earth.

Bromley, Hank. “The Social Chicken and the Technological Egg: Educational Computing and the Technological/Society Divide.” Educational Theory 47.1 (1997): 51-65.

Rogers, Everett M. “The Extensions of Men: The correspondence of Marshall McLuhan and Edward T. Hall,” Mass Communication and Society 3.1 (2000): 119-135.

Feenberg, Andrew. “The Idea of Progress and the Politics of Technology.” Philosophy and Technology 5 (1982): 15-21.

Solar Buzz. “The Uses of Solar Energy”. Web.

• Everett M. Rogers, “The Extensions of Men: The correspondence of Marshall McLuhan and Edward T. Hall,” Mass Communication and Society, Vol. 3, Issue 1, (2000): 119.
• Hank Bromley, “The Social Chicken and the Technological Egg: Educational Computing and the Technological/Society Divide,” Educational Theory, 47, Issue 1 (1997): 59.
• Ibid, Rogers, 119.
• See Feenberg, Andrew. 1982. “The Idea of Progress and the Politics of Technology.” Philosophy and Technology 5:15-21.
• See Solar Buzz, “Uses of solar energy”. Web.
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• The exponential growth of solar power will change the world
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↓ Here comes the sun

The past and a possible future.

Global useful energy consumption*

Traditional

Terawatt hours, ’000

Sources: Rupert Way; Our World in Data

*Primary energy adjusted for waste-heat losses

†From Way et al. (2022)

‡Electricity-conversion technologies (eg green hydrogen)

terawatt hours, ’000

Fast-transition

↓ Sun seekers

Sunlight and solar capacity.

Solar capacity*

Gigawatts, Q1 2024

*Total within 8,500km 2 grid cell

Sources: Global Solar Atlas; TransitionZero

Global horizontal irradiation

2022, KWh/m 2 per day

*Total within 8,500km 2 grid cell Sources: Global Solar Atlas; TransitionZero

*Total within 8,5002km 2 grid cell Sources: Global Solar Atlas; TransitionZero

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Article Contents

Introduction, 1 installed capacity and application of solar energy worldwide, 2 the role of solar energy in sustainable development, 3 the perspective of solar energy, 4 conclusions, conflict of interest statement.

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Solar energy technology and its roles in sustainable development

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Ali O M Maka, Jamal M Alabid, Solar energy technology and its roles in sustainable development, Clean Energy , Volume 6, Issue 3, June 2022, Pages 476–483, https://doi.org/10.1093/ce/zkac023

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Solar energy is environmentally friendly technology, a great energy supply and one of the most significant renewable and green energy sources. It plays a substantial role in achieving sustainable development energy solutions. Therefore, the massive amount of solar energy attainable daily makes it a very attractive resource for generating electricity. Both technologies, applications of concentrated solar power or solar photovoltaics, are always under continuous development to fulfil our energy needs. Hence, a large installed capacity of solar energy applications worldwide, in the same context, supports the energy sector and meets the employment market to gain sufficient development. This paper highlights solar energy applications and their role in sustainable development and considers renewable energy’s overall employment potential. Thus, it provides insights and analysis on solar energy sustainability, including environmental and economic development. Furthermore, it has identified the contributions of solar energy applications in sustainable development by providing energy needs, creating jobs opportunities and enhancing environmental protection. Finally, the perspective of solar energy technology is drawn up in the application of the energy sector and affords a vision of future development in this domain.

With reference to the recommendations of the UN, the Climate Change Conference, COP26, was held in Glasgow , UK, in 2021. They reached an agreement through the representatives of the 197 countries, where they concurred to move towards reducing dependency on coal and fossil-fuel sources. Furthermore, the conference stated ‘the various opportunities for governments to prioritize health and equity in the international climate movement and sustainable development agenda’. Also, one of the testaments is the necessity to ‘create energy systems that protect and improve climate and health’ [ 1 , 2 ].

The Paris Climate Accords is a worldwide agreement on climate change signed in 2015, which addressed the mitigation of climate change, adaptation and finance. Consequently, the representatives of 196 countries concurred to decrease their greenhouse gas emissions [ 3 ]. The Paris Agreement is essential for present and future generations to attain a more secure and stable environment. In essence, the Paris Agreement has been about safeguarding people from such an uncertain and progressively dangerous environment and ensuring everyone can have the right to live in a healthy, pollutant-free environment without the negative impacts of climate change [ 3 , 4 ].

In recent decades, there has been an increase in demand for cleaner energy resources. Based on that, decision-makers of all countries have drawn up plans that depend on renewable sources through a long-term strategy. Thus, such plans reduce the reliance of dependence on traditional energy sources and substitute traditional energy sources with alternative energy technology. As a result, the global community is starting to shift towards utilizing sustainable energy sources and reducing dependence on traditional fossil fuels as a source of energy [ 5 , 6 ].

In 2015, the UN adopted the sustainable development goals (SDGs) and recognized them as international legislation, which demands a global effort to end poverty, safeguard the environment and guarantee that by 2030, humanity lives in prosperity and peace. Consequently, progress needs to be balanced among economic, social and environmental sustainability models [ 7 ].

Many national and international regulations have been established to control the gas emissions and pollutants that impact the environment [ 8 ]. However, the negative effects of increased carbon in the atmosphere have grown in the last 10 years. Production and use of fossil fuels emit methane (CH 4 ), carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) and carbon monoxide (CO), which are the most significant contributors to environmental emissions on our planet. Additionally, coal and oil, including gasoline, coal, oil and methane, are commonly used in energy for transport or for generating electricity. Therefore, burning these fossil fuel s is deemed the largest emitter when used for electricity generation, transport, etc. However, these energy resources are considered depleted energy sources being consumed to an unsustainable degree [ 9–11 ].

Energy is an essential need for the existence and growth of human communities. Consequently, the need for energy has increased gradually as human civilization has progressed. Additionally, in the past few decades, the rapid rise of the world’s population and its reliance on technological developments have increased energy demands. Furthermore, green technology sources play an important role in sustainably providing energy supplies, especially in mitigating climate change [ 5 , 6 , 8 ].

Currently, fossil fuels remain dominant and will continue to be the primary source of large-scale energy for the foreseeable future; however, renewable energy should play a vital role in the future of global energy. The global energy system is undergoing a movement towards more sustainable sources of energy [ 12 , 13 ].

Power generation by fossil-fuel resources has peaked, whilst solar energy is predicted to be at the vanguard of energy generation in the near future. Moreover, it is predicted that by 2050, the generation of solar energy will have increased to 48% due to economic and industrial growth [ 13 , 14 ].

In recent years, it has become increasingly obvious that the globe must decrease greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, ideally towards net zero, if we are to fulfil the Paris Agreement’s goal to reduce global temperature increases [ 3 , 4 ]. The net-zero emissions complement the scenario of sustainable development assessment by 2050. According to the agreed scenario of sustainable development, many industrialized economies must achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. However, the net-zero emissions 2050 brought the first detailed International Energy Agency (IEA) modelling of what strategy will be required over the next 10 years to achieve net-zero carbon emissions worldwide by 2050 [ 15–17 ].

The global statistics of greenhouse gas emissions have been identified; in 2019, there was a 1% decrease in CO 2 emissions from the power industry; that figure dropped by 7% in 2020 due to the COVID-19 crisis, thus indicating a drop in coal-fired energy generation that is being squeezed by decreasing energy needs, growth of renewables and the shift away from fossil fuels. As a result, in 2020, the energy industry was expected to generate ~13 Gt CO 2 , representing ~40% of total world energy sector emissions related to CO 2 . The annual electricity generation stepped back to pre-crisis levels by 2021, although due to a changing ‘fuel mix’, the CO 2 emissions in the power sector will grow just a little before remaining roughly steady until 2030 [ 15 ].

Therefore, based on the information mentioned above, the advantages of solar energy technology are a renewable and clean energy source that is plentiful, cheaper costs, less maintenance and environmentally friendly, to name but a few. The significance of this paper is to highlight solar energy applications to ensure sustainable development; thus, it is vital to researchers, engineers and customers alike. The article’s primary aim is to raise public awareness and disseminate the culture of solar energy usage in daily life, since moving forward, it is the best. The scope of this paper is as follows. Section 1 represents a summary of the introduction. Section 2 represents a summary of installed capacity and the application of solar energy worldwide. Section 3 presents the role of solar energy in the sustainable development and employment of renewable energy. Section 4 represents the perspective of solar energy. Finally, Section 5 outlines the conclusions and recommendations for future work.

1.1 Installed capacity of solar energy

The history of solar energy can be traced back to the seventh century when mirrors with solar power were used. In 1893, the photovoltaic (PV) effect was discovered; after many decades, scientists developed this technology for electricity generation [ 18 ]. Based on that, after many years of research and development from scientists worldwide, solar energy technology is classified into two key applications: solar thermal and solar PV.

PV systems convert the Sun’s energy into electricity by utilizing solar panels. These PV devices have quickly become the cheapest option for new electricity generation in numerous world locations due to their ubiquitous deployment. For example, during the period from 2010 to 2018, the cost of generating electricity by solar PV plants decreased by 77%. However, solar PV installed capacity progress expanded 100-fold between 2005 and 2018. Consequently, solar PV has emerged as a key component in the low-carbon sustainable energy system required to provide access to affordable and dependable electricity, assisting in fulfilling the Paris climate agreement and in achieving the 2030 SDG targets [ 19 ].

The installed capacity of solar energy worldwide has been rapidly increased to meet energy demands. The installed capacity of PV technology from 2010 to 2020 increased from 40 334 to 709 674 MW, whereas the installed capacity of concentrated solar power (CSP) applications, which was 1266 MW in 2010, after 10 years had increased to 6479 MW. Therefore, solar PV technology has more deployed installations than CSP applications. So, the stand-alone solar PV and large-scale grid-connected PV plants are widely used worldwide and used in space applications. Fig. 1 represents the installation of solar energy worldwide.

Installation capacity of solar energy worldwide [ 20 ].

1.2 Application of solar energy

Energy can be obtained directly from the Sun—so-called solar energy. Globally, there has been growth in solar energy applications, as it can be used to generate electricity, desalinate water and generate heat, etc. The taxonomy of applications of solar energy is as follows: (i) PVs and (ii) CSP. Fig. 2 details the taxonomy of solar energy applications.

The taxonomy of solar energy applications.

Solar cells are devices that convert sunlight directly into electricity; typical semiconductor materials are utilized to form a PV solar cell device. These materials’ characteristics are based on atoms with four electrons in their outer orbit or shell. Semiconductor materials are from the periodic table’s group ‘IV’ or a mixture of groups ‘IV’ and ‘II’, the latter known as ‘II–VI’ semiconductors [ 21 ]. Additionally, a periodic table mixture of elements from groups ‘III’ and ‘V’ can create ‘III–V’ materials [ 22 ].

PV devices, sometimes called solar cells, are electronic devices that convert sunlight into electrical power. PVs are also one of the rapidly growing renewable-energy technologies of today. It is therefore anticipated to play a significant role in the long-term world electricity-generating mixture moving forward.

Solar PV systems can be incorporated to supply electricity on a commercial level or installed in smaller clusters for mini-grids or individual usage. Utilizing PV modules to power mini-grids is a great way to offer electricity to those who do not live close to power-transmission lines, especially in developing countries with abundant solar energy resources. In the most recent decade, the cost of producing PV modules has dropped drastically, giving them not only accessibility but sometimes making them the least expensive energy form. PV arrays have a 30-year lifetime and come in various shades based on the type of material utilized in their production.

The most typical method for solar PV desalination technology that is used for desalinating sea or salty water is electrodialysis (ED). Therefore, solar PV modules are directly connected to the desalination process. This technique employs the direct-current electricity to remove salt from the sea or salty water.

The technology of PV–thermal (PV–T) comprises conventional solar PV modules coupled with a thermal collector mounted on the rear side of the PV module to pre-heat domestic hot water. Accordingly, this enables a larger portion of the incident solar energy on the collector to be converted into beneficial electrical and thermal energy.

A zero-energy building is a building that is designed for zero net energy emissions and emits no carbon dioxide. Building-integrated PV (BIPV) technology is coupled with solar energy sources and devices in buildings that are utilized to supply energy needs. Thus, building-integrated PVs utilizing thermal energy (BIPV/T) incorporate creative technologies such as solar cooling [ 23 ].

A PV water-pumping system is typically used to pump water in rural, isolated and desert areas. The system consists of PV modules to power a water pump to the location of water need. The water-pumping rate depends on many factors such as pumping head, solar intensity, etc.

A PV-powered cathodic protection (CP) system is designed to supply a CP system to control the corrosion of a metal surface. This technique is based on the impressive current acquired from PV solar energy systems and is utilized for burying pipelines, tanks, concrete structures, etc.

Concentrated PV (CPV) technology uses either the refractive or the reflective concentrators to increase sunlight to PV cells [ 24 , 25 ]. High-efficiency solar cells are usually used, consisting of many layers of semiconductor materials that stack on top of each other. This technology has an efficiency of >47%. In addition, the devices produce electricity and the heat can be used for other purposes [ 26 , 27 ].

For CSP systems, the solar rays are concentrated using mirrors in this application. These rays will heat a fluid, resulting in steam used to power a turbine and generate electricity. Large-scale power stations employ CSP to generate electricity. A field of mirrors typically redirect rays to a tall thin tower in a CSP power station. Thus, numerous large flat heliostats (mirrors) are used to track the Sun and concentrate its light onto a receiver in power tower systems, sometimes known as central receivers. The hot fluid could be utilized right away to produce steam or stored for later usage. Another of the great benefits of a CSP power station is that it may be built with molten salts to store heat and generate electricity outside of daylight hours.

Mirrored dishes are used in dish engine systems to focus and concentrate sunlight onto a receiver. The dish assembly tracks the Sun’s movement to capture as much solar energy as possible. The engine includes thin tubes that work outside the four-piston cylinders and it opens into the cylinders containing hydrogen or helium gas. The pistons are driven by the expanding gas. Finally, the pistons drive an electric generator by turning a crankshaft.

A further water-treatment technique, using reverse osmosis, depends on the solar-thermal and using solar concentrated power through the parabolic trough technique. The desalination employs CSP technology that utilizes hybrid integration and thermal storage allows continuous operation and is a cost-effective solution. Solar thermal can be used for domestic purposes such as a dryer. In some countries or societies, the so-called food dehydration is traditionally used to preserve some food materials such as meats, fruits and vegetables.

Sustainable energy development is defined as the development of the energy sector in terms of energy generating, distributing and utilizing that are based on sustainability rules [ 28 ]. Energy systems will significantly impact the environment in both developed and developing countries. Consequently, the global sustainable energy system must optimize efficiency and reduce emissions [ 29 ].

The sustainable development scenario is built based on the economic perspective. It also examines what activities will be required to meet shared long-term climate benefits, clean air and energy access targets. The short-term details are based on the IEA’s sustainable recovery strategy, which aims to promote economies and employment through developing a cleaner and more reliable energy infrastructure [ 15 ]. In addition, sustainable development includes utilizing renewable-energy applications, smart-grid technologies, energy security, and energy pricing, and having a sound energy policy [ 29 ].

The demand-side response can help meet the flexibility requirements in electricity systems by moving demand over time. As a result, the integration of renewable technologies for helping facilitate the peak demand is reduced, system stability is maintained, and total costs and CO 2 emissions are reduced. The demand-side response is currently used mostly in Europe and North America, where it is primarily aimed at huge commercial and industrial electricity customers [ 15 ].

International standards are an essential component of high-quality infrastructure. Establishing legislative convergence, increasing competition and supporting innovation will allow participants to take part in a global world PV market [ 30 ]. Numerous additional countries might benefit from more actively engaging in developing global solar PV standards. The leading countries in solar PV manufacturing and deployment have embraced global standards for PV systems and highly contributed to clean-energy development. Additional assistance and capacity-building to enhance quality infrastructure in developing economies might also help support wider implementation and compliance with international solar PV standards. Thus, support can bring legal requirements and frameworks into consistency and give additional impetus for the trade of secure and high-quality solar PV products [ 19 ].

Continuous trade-led dissemination of solar PV and other renewable technologies will strengthen the national infrastructure. For instance, off-grid solar energy alternatives, such as stand-alone systems and mini-grids, could be easily deployed to assist healthcare facilities in improving their degree of services and powering portable testing sites and vaccination coolers. In addition to helping in the immediate medical crisis, trade-led solar PV adoption could aid in the improving economy from the COVID-19 outbreak, not least by providing jobs in the renewable-energy sector, which are estimated to reach >40 million by 2050 [ 19 ].

The framework for energy sustainability development, by the application of solar energy, is one way to achieve that goal. With the large availability of solar energy resources for PV and CSP energy applications, we can move towards energy sustainability. Fig. 3 illustrates plans for solar energy sustainability.

Framework for solar energy applications in energy sustainability.

The environmental consideration of such applications, including an aspect of the environmental conditions, operating conditions, etc., have been assessed. It is clean, friendly to the environment and also energy-saving. Moreover, this technology has no removable parts, low maintenance procedures and longevity.

Economic and social development are considered by offering job opportunities to the community and providing cheaper energy options. It can also improve people’s income; in turn, living standards will be enhanced. Therefore, energy is paramount, considered to be the most vital element of human life, society’s progress and economic development.

As efforts are made to increase the energy transition towards sustainable energy systems, it is anticipated that the next decade will see a continued booming of solar energy and all clean-energy technology. Scholars worldwide consider research and innovation to be substantial drivers to enhance the potency of such solar application technology.

2.1 Employment from renewable energy

The employment market has also boomed with the deployment of renewable-energy technology. Renewable-energy technology applications have created >12 million jobs worldwide. The solar PV application came as the pioneer, which created >3 million jobs. At the same time, while the solar thermal applications (solar heating and cooling) created >819 000 jobs, the CSP attained >31 000 jobs [ 20 ].

According to the reports, although top markets such as the USA, the EU and China had the highest investment in renewables jobs, other Asian countries have emerged as players in the solar PV panel manufacturers’ industry [ 31 ].

Solar energy employment has offered more employment than other renewable sources. For example, in the developing countries, there was a growth in employment chances in solar applications that powered ‘micro-enterprises’. Hence, it has been significant in eliminating poverty, which is considered the key goal of sustainable energy development. Therefore, solar energy plays a critical part in fulfilling the sustainability targets for a better plant and environment [ 31 , 32 ]. Fig. 4 illustrates distributions of world renewable-energy employment.

World renewable-energy employment [ 20 ].

The world distribution of PV jobs is disseminated across the continents as follows. There was 70% employment in PV applications available in Asia, while 10% is available in North America, 10% available in South America and 10% availability in Europe. Table 1 details the top 10 countries that have relevant jobs in Asia, North America, South America and Europe.

List of the top 10 countries that created jobs in solar PV applications [ 19 , 33 ]

Solar energy investments can meet energy targets and environmental protection by reducing carbon emissions while having no detrimental influence on the country’s development [ 32 , 34 ]. In countries located in the ‘Sunbelt’, there is huge potential for solar energy, where there is a year-round abundance of solar global horizontal irradiation. Consequently, these countries, including the Middle East, Australia, North Africa, China, the USA and Southern Africa, to name a few, have a lot of potential for solar energy technology. The average yearly solar intensity is >2800 kWh/m 2 and the average daily solar intensity is >7.5 kWh/m 2 . Fig. 5 illustrates the optimum areas for global solar irradiation.

World global solar irradiation map [ 35 ].

The distribution of solar radiation and its intensity are two important factors that influence the efficiency of solar PV technology and these two parameters vary among different countries. Therefore, it is essential to realize that some solar energy is wasted since it is not utilized. On the other hand, solar radiation is abundant in several countries, especially in developing ones, which makes it invaluable [ 36 , 37 ].

Worldwide, the PV industry has benefited recently from globalization, which has allowed huge improvements in economies of scale, while vertical integration has created strong value chains: as manufacturers source materials from an increasing number of suppliers, prices have dropped while quality has been maintained. Furthermore, the worldwide incorporated PV solar device market is growing fast, creating opportunities enabling solar energy firms to benefit from significant government help with underwriting, subsides, beneficial trading licences and training of a competent workforce, while the increased rivalry has reinforced the motivation to continue investing in research and development, both public and private [ 19 , 33 ].

The global outbreak of COVID-19 has impacted ‘cross-border supply chains’ and those investors working in the renewable-energy sector. As a result, more diversity of solar PV supply-chain processes may be required in the future to enhance long-term flexibility versus exogenous shocks [ 19 , 33 ].

It is vital to establish a well-functioning quality infrastructure to expand the distribution of solar PV technologies beyond borders and make it easier for new enterprises to enter solar PV value chains. In addition, a strong quality infrastructure system is a significant instrument for assisting local firms in meeting the demands of trade markets. Furthermore, high-quality infrastructure can help reduce associated risks with the worldwide PV project value chain, such as underperforming, inefficient and failing goods, limiting the development, improvement and export of these technologies. Governments worldwide are, at various levels, creating quality infrastructure, including the usage of metrology i.e. the science of measurement and its application, regulations, testing procedures, accreditation, certification and market monitoring [ 33 , 38 ].

The perspective is based on a continuous process of technological advancement and learning. Its speed is determined by its deployment, which varies depending on the scenario [ 39 , 40 ]. The expense trends support policy preferences for low-carbon energy sources, particularly in increased energy-alteration scenarios. Emerging technologies are introduced and implemented as quickly as they ever have been before in energy history [ 15 , 33 ].

The CSP stations have been in use since the early 1980s and are currently found all over the world. The CSP power stations in the USA currently produce >800 MW of electricity yearly, which is sufficient to power ~500 000 houses. New CSP heat-transfer fluids being developed can function at ~1288 o C, which is greater than existing fluids, to improve the efficiency of CSP systems and, as a result, to lower the cost of energy generated using this technology. Thus, as a result, CSP is considered to have a bright future, with the ability to offer large-scale renewable energy that can supplement and soon replace traditional electricity-production technologies [ 41 ]. The DESERTEC project has drawn out the possibility of CSP in the Sahara Desert regions. When completed, this investment project will have the world’s biggest energy-generation capacity through the CSP plant, which aims to transport energy from North Africa to Europe [ 42 , 43 ].

The costs of manufacturing materials for PV devices have recently decreased, which is predicted to compensate for the requirements and increase the globe’s electricity demand [ 44 ]. Solar energy is a renewable, clean and environmentally friendly source of energy. Therefore, solar PV application techniques should be widely utilized. Although PV technology has always been under development for a variety of purposes, the fact that PV solar cells convert the radiant energy from the Sun directly into electrical power means it can be applied in space and in terrestrial applications [ 38 , 45 ].

In one way or another, the whole renewable-energy sector has a benefit over other energy industries. A long-term energy development plan needs an energy source that is inexhaustible, virtually accessible and simple to gather. The Sun rises over the horizon every day around the globe and leaves behind ~108–1018 kWh of energy; consequently, it is more than humanity will ever require to fulfil its desire for electricity [ 46 ].

The technology that converts solar radiation into electricity is well known and utilizes PV cells, which are already in use worldwide. In addition, various solar PV technologies are available today, including hybrid solar cells, inorganic solar cells and organic solar cells. So far, solar PV devices made from silicon have led the solar market; however, these PVs have certain drawbacks, such as expenditure of material, time-consuming production, etc. It is important to mention here the operational challenges of solar energy in that it does not work at night, has less output in cloudy weather and does not work in sandstorm conditions. PV battery storage is widely used to reduce the challenges to gain high reliability. Therefore, attempts have been made to find alternative materials to address these constraints. Currently, this domination is challenged by the evolution of the emerging generation of solar PV devices based on perovskite, organic and organic/inorganic hybrid materials.

This paper highlights the significance of sustainable energy development. Solar energy would help steady energy prices and give numerous social, environmental and economic benefits. This has been indicated by solar energy’s contribution to achieving sustainable development through meeting energy demands, creating jobs and protecting the environment. Hence, a paramount critical component of long-term sustainability should be investigated. Based on the current condition of fossil-fuel resources, which are deemed to be depleting energy sources, finding an innovative technique to deploy clean-energy technology is both essential and expected. Notwithstanding, solar energy has yet to reach maturity in development, especially CSP technology. Also, with growing developments in PV systems, there has been a huge rise in demand for PV technology applications all over the globe. Further work needs to be undertaken to develop energy sustainably and consider other clean energy resources. Moreover, a comprehensive experimental and validation process for such applications is required to develop cleaner energy sources to decarbonize our planet.

The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper.

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Home / Essay Samples / Environment / Ecology / Solar Energy

Solar Energy Essay Examples

Science as a human endeavour: environmental issues – solar panels.

As science progresses governments and countries are turning to renewable energy supplies to minimise their impact on the environment, as well as to conserve finite resources such as coal and natural gas. As of 2015 86% of Australia’s energy was derived from fossil fuels. The...

Comparison Between Solar Power and Wind Power

With the growing global concern about environmental sustainability and the need to shift towards renewable energy sources, solar power and wind power have emerged as two prominent contenders. Both solar and wind power technologies offer clean and abundant energy, but they have unique characteristics and...

Solar Energy: Advantages and Disadvantages

Solar energy, derived from the radiant power of the sun, has emerged as a transformative solution in the pursuit of cleaner, more sustainable energy alternatives. This essay delves into the intricate fabric of solar energy, exploring its multifaceted advantages that range from environmental benefits to...

A Project Report on Two Wheeler Solar Hybrid Vehicle

Hybrid motor vehicles, runs using conventional and non-conventional energy sources that are petrol and solar energy. The aim is to fabricate and optimize a two stroke engine vehicle powered by both battery and gasoline. It has greater advantage over previously used gasoline engine and that...

The Sun Powered Warm Innovation

These days, the worldwide temperature alteration and green gas impact are the most vital perils for the Earth's future. It appears that the ideal arrangement is utilizing sustainable power source assets to stop their unfavorable effects on human life. The sun oriented asset has been...

Qualitative and Quantitative Examination of Solar Home System

Four out of five people on this planet simply turn a switch. The lights come on, a computer powers up, hot water flows from a tap or machines start humming. One out of five, however, does not have a switch to turn, since he or...

An Overview of Round Solar Panels 

Solar Panels are a great innovation, but they are not necessarily new technology. They have been around for years, with the solar calculators being existent since the 70s. However, this technology has not been utilized and marketed to its full potential until the 20th century....

Using Renewable Power Sources in the UK: Wind and Solar Energy

Over the past ten years, the UK has increased the use of renewable power sources, as the non-renewable source is steeply decreasing and will soon finish. Energy is “the power from something such as electricity that can do work, such as providing light”. Renewable energy...

Literature Review of Autonomous Solar Power Systems

Due to the low availability of power supply in numerous regions, especially rural areas; some people opt for living autonomously without being dependent on the traditional power supplies. Thus, the term “off the grid” has been created. It is referred as “stand-alone power system”, and...

Solar and Wind Energy in the United Kingdom

Renewable energy is a better, safer option for the future of the world. In the UK, people are debating whether wind energy is better than solar energy or if solar energy is better than wind energy, this goes to show that people are looking for...

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