Solar Energy and What You Should Know
You may have heard the terms of solar and wind energy but have been baffled about the process that is entailed in this energy conversion process, let alone the components involved. Both solar and wind are classified as renewable energy since both forms of energy are not depleted upon use. Both sources of energy are also classified as sources of clean energy. Clean energy is defined as energy where there is no release of pollutants, such as carbon dioxide and methane gas.
Benefits of Solar Power and Solar Installation
As renewable energy, solar is energy from the sun that can be converted to thermal or electrical energy. Solar can be harvested from methods inclusive of concentrated solar power, photovoltaic, and even solar heating. Whereas concentrated solar power is predominantly exclusive to utility-scale power, photovoltaics can be deployed on both the utility and residential scale. Although homeowners and business owners may be more familiar with solar in the application of electricity, using passive solar design to reduce the heating and cooling load provides an additional reduction in energy cost. Unlike passive solar, active solar design involves mechanical components (such as a solar water heater that involves a pump).
Given how the electricity from solar is generated, the primary components in solar installation are the solar panel and the inverter. In the application of electrical energy, solar panels operate by letting light particles impact electrons, thereby freeing atoms and generating a flow of electricity. The inverter(s) convert direct current to alternating current that is more compatible with most electrical appliances. Before such an installation can be approved, the roof of residential and commercial buildings must be structurally sound and the electrical wiring must be up to code.
Given the need for sustainability, the reduction of cost of energy produced from renewables makes this source of energy more in the reach of residential and commercial customers. As of 2017, over 250,000 Americans were employed in the solar industry in over 9,000 companies after a 54% percent growth in the solar industry in the past decade (with a 2017 industry value of $17 billion). Total benefits for residential and business clients will depend on energy requirements, locally available incentives, and permitting requirements.
Our professional solar installation experts can assess your home or business and help you make an informed decision about what type of solar installation is right for you and your property.
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