The amount of energy the Earth receives from the Sun is 35000 times more than the world’s accumulated energy consumption. This constant source of energy can be used in various applications to fulfill our needs. Instead of wasting this natural resource, we should use it. Many countries have taken proactive steps to set up solar energy generation plants such as the United States. It has nine of the thirteen biggest photovoltaic solar projects in the world.

Solar energy can be used to generate heat and electricity. The solar radiations are converted to electricity by using solar cells (photovoltaics). Photovoltaic systems do not release any greenhouse gases.

Solar energy can also be used to generate steam. This can be indirectly utilized to generate electricity. Firstly, steam is generated using solar energy. Then this steam is used to run power generators for electricity creation. During this process, no fossil fuels are burnt and the resultant energy is 100% eco-friendly. Solar energy solution is not a new concept. Studies reveal that Native Americans, Greek and Chinese used those energy solutions during ancient times. They used the Sun to keep their homes warm and to keep them disease free.

This energy can also be used in the residential sector. Lots of energy is consumed for water and space heating purpose. This energy can be reduced up to 60% by installing solar systems. Solar dryer is a great energy solution for wineries. It uses air as a medium of heat and requires moderate temperature.

There are some factors that act as a barrier to adopting solar energy solutions. Firstly, there is a high initial cost associated with buying such solutions. It is due to semi-conducting materials used in its manufacturing. To cope with this problem, companies like Solyndra and research at PARC make cheap photovoltaic cells. These cells cover a larger area. Another problem is that no energy is produced at night. However, battery backup system and/or net metering can solve this problem.

A lot of research is underway to utilize it for practical purposes. We can expect that many more solar energy solutions will be developed at affordable prices for our homes.

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