Name Solar Energy

Solar Power
Solar power is power that is generated from
sunlight. Solar power is a renewable energy
source, because when we use solar power, we aren’t permanently using
up any of the Earth’s resources like when we burn coal or oil. Solar energy
is also considered a “green” energy source because it does not generate
pollution as it is used.

You have probably seen solar panels on the roofs of houses. Solar panels
are panels of individual solar cells, also called photovoltaic cells. The word
photovoltaic is a combination of the words “photo” meaning “light” and
“volt,” which is a measurement of electricity. Photovoltaic cells can also
be found in wristwatches and calculators.

Here is how photovoltaic cells work. When particles of light, called

photons, hit the surface of the cell, electrons are attracted to the surface.
As a result, voltage forms between the top and bottom layers of the cell.
When an electric circuit is created between these two layers, current
flows, which powers electrical equipment. The more power that is
required, the more photovoltaic cells are used. This is why it takes entire
panels of photovoltaic cells to produce enough power to meet the
electrical needs of a house.

The first practical silicon solar cell was demonstrated at Bell Labs on April
25, 1954. Since then, they have not only become a popular and cost-
effective way to power homes and commercial buildings, they have also
been used to power spaceships and satellites. The U.S. government has
been offering tax credits for the use of solar power since 1990.

There are some drawbacks to solar power. One is that sunshine is not
always consistently available due to time of day, time of year, and the
weather. Another is that photovoltaic cells are expensive, so converting to
solar power typically requires a significant up-front financial investment.

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