Solar Energy Systems - Their Practical Uses

Solar energy systems vary greatly and provide many energy needs. The term 'solar energy' refers to many different types of technology, from simple passive design to advanced methods of harnessing the energy from the sun. Some uses for solar energy include photovoltaic (PV) systems. This is generally referred to as 'solar power'. These systems take energy from the sun and convert it to electricity that can be used for any application you would normally associate with electrical energy needs. The advancements in PV technology are making it a practical solution for small devices and large industrial and residential electrical needs. Although PV systems are currently getting a lot of attention, there are other systems that have either been used for many years or that are emerging as research produces new ideas for taking advantage of the sun's energy.

Solar lighting systems are another example of currently popular ways of decreasing the reliance on fossil fuels and using the sun's energy. Although solar lighting is centuries old and is still apparent as a part of ancient architecture, it is regaining popularity in our current economic and environmental crisis. Obviously, daylight is a practical lighting option, but our society requires lighting at odd hours and within buildings that were not built with passive solar lighting in mind. Hybrid solar lighting systems collect sunlight with mirrors and use optical fibers to send the light into a building to provide lighting.

Solar thermal systems are great for water heating, but can also be used to heat space. Instead of burning fossil fuels, water and space can be heated with the help of thermal storage. Thermal mass materials are capable of storing heat for future use and current research is likely to make this more efficient over time.

Solar energy systems vary depending on the intended applications. As the market demands for solar energy increase in this climate of high fuel prices, political reasons for gaining independence from fossil fuels, and concerns over global warming; new technologies and system designs continue to emerge.