The Earths First Energy

A fact about solar energy is that the Earths first energy was solar energy; another fact about solar energy is humans have been using solar energy to make our lives easier. People have used solar energy to dry food and bricks nearly as long as humans have started building cities.

In more recent times, humans have made solar cook boxes as early as 1830 for cooking while camping; and more recently, in the 1950s people created photovoltaic cells for collecting solar energy and turning it into electricity.

Progress In Solar Technology

A commonly known fact about solar energy is that the collection is not terribly efficient, only able to collect about 10% of the energy they are subjected to; today solar cells or photovoltaic cells are able to collect more like 20% of the energy they are subjected to.

Another fact about solar energy is that the cells are only able to collect the energy for electricity in full or part; the sun, clouds, mist, and fog will limit or diminish the solar cells ability to absorb solar energy.

A new fact about solar energy is that scientists are working towards making new solar cells which are able to absorb UV or ultra-violet rays from the sun and convert those into energy; these will create even more electricity because, even though the sun is not shining, UV rays are always able to penetrate to the solar cells.

The Make Up Of A Solar Cell

Solar cells are made of silicone alloy and are charged with photons and electrons to aid in the transfer of solar radiation to electricity. The cells are often small, only about 4 inches long, and are often tiled into weather proof blocks allowing more electricity to be made as more sunlight can be converted.

Solar Energy Is Part Of The Solution

With the worlds high demand for electricity, more and more coal burning power plants spring up every day; which in turn causes more pollution. The fact about solar energy is that it is a renewable and clean source of energy, and if it is used in combination with other forms of clean energy such as wind power, it can completely fuel a home or, on a large scale, an entire city or metro area.

Many states give rebates, grants, and tax deductions to encourage people to convert their homes to clean energy; in addition to reducing the homeowners monthly bills, a fact about solar energy is that using it in place of the utility companys energy will reduce the overall amount of pollution released into the atmosphere.