How does solar energy work?

The amount of sunlight that strikes the earth's surface in an hour and a half is enough to handle the entire world's energy consumption for a full year. Solar technologies convert sunlight into electrical energy either through photovoltaic (PV) panels or through mirrors that concentrate solar radiation.

How can on-site solar PV & energy storage improve sustainability?

To achieve sustainability goals while meeting the increasing electricity demands of electrification, organizations are pairing on-site solar PV generation with on-site energy storage. These systems, which are considered as “behind-the-meter” (BTM) systems, allow facilities to maximize the benefits of on-site renewable generation.

How do solar panels create electricity?

But if you want to explore how solar panels create electricity a bit more, we'll explain what you should know. Solar cells are typically made from a material called silicon, which generates electricity through a process known as the photovoltaic effect.

How does a solar inverter work?

Solar inverters convert DC electricity into AC electricity, the electrical current appliances run on when plugged into a standard wall socket. Other types of solar technology include solar hot water and concentrated solar power. They both use the sun's energy but work differently than traditional solar panels.

How does concentrated solar power work?

Concentrated solar power (CSP) works similarly to solar hot water in that it transforms sunlight into heat—but it doesn't stop there. CSP technology concentrates solar thermal energy using mirrors and turns it into electricity. At a CSP installation, mirrors reflect the sun to a focal point.

What is solar energy used for?

This energy can be used to generate electricity or be stored in batteries or thermal storage. Below, you can find resources and information on the basics of solar radiation, photovoltaic and concentrating solar-thermal power technologies, electrical grid systems integration, and the non-hardware aspects (soft costs) of solar energy.