Solar energy is the radiation from the Sun capable of producing heat, causing chemical reactions, or generating electricity. The total amount of solar energy received on Earth is vastly more than the world's current and anticipated energy requirements. If suitably harnessed, solar energy has the potential to satisfy all future energy needs.
• Nov. 18, 2024, 1:40 PM ET (BBC) solar power, form of renewable energy generated by the conversion of solar energy (namely sunlight) and artificial light into electricity. In the 21st century, as countries race to cut greenhouse gas emissions to curb the unfolding climate crisis, the transition to renewable energies has become a critical strategy.
Solar energy is commonly used for solar water heaters and house heating. The heat from solar ponds enables the production of chemicals, food, textiles, warm greenhouses, swimming pools, and livestock buildings. Cooking and providing a power source for electronic devices can also be achieved by using solar energy. How is solar energy collected?
Photovoltaic (PV) solar energy is a form of renewable energy that harnesses the power of the sun to generate electricity. This technology has gained significant popularity in recent years as the world seeks to reduce its reliance on fossil fuels and combat climate change.
Solar panels only generate electricity when the sun is shining, which means that energy storage systems, such as batteries, are needed to store excess electricity for use during cloudy days or at night.
An electric grid with lots of solar power must pair it with other technologies for reliability: energy sources like hydropower that can be powered up and down at will, energy storage (like batteries) to save up solar energy when it’s plentiful, and/or long-distance transmission to move electricity from the sunniest spots to where it’s needed.