ASSIGNMENT # 1

Topic: Solar Energy

Name

Muhammad Ali

REG NO

BChE-FA19-016

Subject

Sustainable Energy Resources

Submitted To

Dr Shahid Raza Malik

Department Of Chemical Engineering

Table of Contents
1. Definition.......................................................................1
1.1. Types of Solar Energy.................................................1
1.2. Uses of solar Energy...................................................1
1.2.1. Residential Application............................................1
1.2.2. Industrial Applications.............................................2
1.2.3. Remote Applications...............................................2
1.2.4. Transportation.........................................................2
1.2.5. Pool Heating............................................................2
1.3. Advantages and Disadvantages of Solar Energy........2
1. Definition
Solar energy is any type of energy generated by the sun. Solar energy is created by nuclear fusion that
takes place in the sun. Fusion occurs when protons of hydrogen atoms violently collide in the sun's core
and fuse to create a helium atom.

1.1. Types of Solar Energy

Solar energy is changing the way in which we look at how we source the energy we need. Given how fast
technology has marched on in line with our search for cleaner energy, let's take a look at the different
types of solar energy available.

 Photovoltaic Solar Energy

 Concentrated Solar Energy
 Water Heating Solar Energy
 Solar Pool Heating
 Thermal Solar Energy

1.2. Uses of solar Energy

The use of solar energy greatly reduces long-term utility expenses like gas, electricity, etc. They are
renewable energy sources that have applications in the following sectors:

1.2.1. Residential Application 

The residential applications comprise solar water heaters for heating water. This is achieved by installing
a photovoltaic cell on the roof of the house which collects the solar energy to warm water. Solar energy
is also used to generate electricity in residential complexes. During the daytime, solar energy is captured
in batteries and used to supply power through the day and night. These uses of solar energy cut down
energy expenditures greatly.

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1.2.2. Industrial Applications 
The thermal energy from the Sun supplies power to warehouses, offices, and industries. Even radio and
TV stations are being powered through solar energy. In aircraft, solar energy provides power to warning
lights, and lighthouses also use solar energy.

1.2.3. Remote Applications  

Remotely situated places like schools, hospitals, buildings, and clinics can also benefit from the power
generated by solar energy. Desalination plants also use solar energy instead of electricity.

1.2.4. Transportation 
Public transportation means like light-rails, buses, and trolleys use solar energy.

1.2.5. Pool Heating 

During the cold season, solar energy is used to heat swimming pools.

1.3. Advantages and Disadvantages of Solar Energy

Usage Solar energy notes are not complete without talking about its miscellaneous advantages and
disadvantages. 

Advantages of Solar Energy Systems

 A Renewable Source of Energy. 

 There is no way we can run out of solar energy.
 Solar energy can be applied around the world in many areas.
 Sunlight will be available to us for 5 billion years, as per the scientists.
 Reduction in Electricity Consumption and Bills Since some of your energy needs will be met by
solar energy, the amount of electricity you consume from other sources would decrease, which
in turn reduces your electricity bills.
 Low Maintenance Costs All you need to do to maintain a solar system is to keep them clean.
Most solar equipment from reliable manufacturers has 20 to 25 years of warranty.
 There is no wear and tear on a solar system since there are no moving parts involved in its
working.
 It creates jobs as you employ solar panel manufacturers and installers, thereby helping the
economy.
 Solar systems are eco-friendly as there is no green gas emitted from them after installation.

Disadvantages of Solar Energy Systems

 Systems High Initial Cost The cost of purchasing a solar energy system is quite high initially.
 The various costs involved are the solar panel cost, batteries, inverters, wiring, and installation. 
 They are Dependent on the Weather on a cloudy or rainy day, it is still possible to collect solar
energy, but its efficiency takes a hit. Since solar systems depend on sunlight for their power, less
sunlight can bring down a solar system's performance. 
 Storing Solar Energy is Expensive if solar energy systems are not used up right away, they need
huge batteries to be stored. These batteries are used in off the solar grid systems and have to be

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 charged throughout the day to use them at night. This is an expensive solution to make solar
energy available during the night too.
 Needs a Lot of Space depending on the level of electricity you want to produce, solar panels
would increase in number.
 These panels take a lot of space, and some roofs might not even fit in all the solar panels you
require.