What Are The Different Types Of Solar Energy?

Solar energy is one of this planet’s most readily available energy sources. But, did you know that 173,000 terawatts of energy strike earth continuously?

Just imagine if this solar energy could be harnessed and how good it would be for our environment and the planet.

This article provides insights into the different kinds of solar energy harvesting systems available.

Are there different types of solar energy?

Yes. In 2022, you will have different types of solar energy systems to choose from. However, the main thought that one should have before selecting a specific system is whether the preferred kind of solar energy system would fit the requirement list and budget.

Next, put aside some time to understand the functioning of different solar energy systems, which will surely help you come to a conclusion.

We have narrowed the basics so you can easily understand which type of solar system suits you the best.

What Are The Different Types Of Solar Energy? 1

Photo by Manny Becerra on Unsplash

Photovoltaic solar energy

Photovoltaic(PV) solar energy uses the concept of the photoelectric effect. In this technology, sunlight gets converted into electricity for usage. First discovered in 1954, photovoltaic cells have come a long way. Primarily silicon is used to make PV cells.

A solar panel is made by assembling individual PV cells. When sunlight falls on these panels, the cells get energised. In turn, an electric field is created, which causes the flow of electricity. 

The electricity generated through this process is DC, converted into AC using an inverter for regular use.

Concentrated solar energy

Concentrated solar energy systems are generally used for industries. This system uses an extensive array of curved mirrors to reflect sunlight onto a receiver. The receiver contains a fluid that gets heated up and passed through a heat exchanger to produce steam.

This steam drives a turbine whose movement generates electricity. This electricity generated is stored in storage devices. 

Concentrated solar energy systems are generally of three types :

  1. Trough systems
  2. Power tower systems
  3. Dish/engine systems

The primary mechanism of concentrating the solar energy onto receivers is the same in all cases, but the structural orientation of the mirrors used varies. This type of solar system is well fitted for users who have high energy needs.

Thermal solar energy

This system dates back to the late 19th century. In this setup, scientists use the exact mechanism of the concentrated solar energy system. However, this setup is mostly applicable for smaller industries and water heating purposes.

In thermal solar systems, molten salt is used in place of the heating fluid used for running the turbine. It is cost-efficient and practical at the same time. 

A thermal solar energy system is almost 70% efficient in collecting heat from the sun. Therefore, this simple technology can be the solution for people looking to heat water at a minimal cost.

Drone Point View of Solar and Thermal Panels Fuel and Power Generation Stock Photo

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Solar pool heating

The first commercial solar water heaters are almost two centuries old. This cost-effective method keeps your pools warm without harming nature’s resources.

A solar pool heating system consists of four essential elements, which are :

  1. Solar collector
  2. Pump
  3. Valve
  4. Filter

The pool’s water passes through a filter, and several valves reach the solar collection area. This collection area is made up of photovoltaic material capable of capturing solar energy. Finally, the heated water is returned to the pool using a pump.

Low maintenance and energy costs cancel out the installation cost of solar pool systems. So if you like your swimming pool warm, give solar pool heaters a shot.

SunHeater Pool Heating System
SunHeater Pool Heating System

Read more on “Solar pool heaters

Passive solar energy

Simply put, a passive solar energy system collects sun’s heat using the building’s design and windows and retains it, which is used later. These systems are cost-effective and functional at the same time. Greenhouses and sunrooms are typical examples of passive designs.

Passivated systems allow you to regulate the temperature of a place according to the user’s needs, using the stored solar energy. A control system does the entire mechanism of heat dissipation.

This system includes rooftop hangs, sensors and vents. Every component works in unison to maintain the appropriate temperature inside the building.

Another advantage of these system is that it brings two-in-one benefits. It can increase the internal temperature of a home or building and cool it when needed. This is why passivated solar energy is slowly gaining popularity.

Hybrid solar energy

A hybrid solar energy system functions like any regular solar panel. However, it is more beneficial than a typical solar panel system. It’s made in a way so that it can function during the day as well as at night.

Along with the components of a regular solar system, it includes solar energy storage facilities and a power grid connection.

The batteries allow the hybrid system to store the surplus energy which is generated during the day. If the power is not used, it’s sent back to the grid.

The hybrid solar energy system perfectly combines grid and off-grid energy systems. This system gives you a solid energy balance between conventional and renewable energy sources.

Which type of solar energy should you use?

The type of solar energy harvesting system you should use depends on your needs. Following are some quick questions that you should ask yourself to make a choice.

  • “Is a storage unit required?”
  • “How much energy do I need on a regular basis?”
  • “Am I ready to go full solar?”
  •  “Are my requirements commercial or personal?”

These questions will help you understand your core requirements for a solar energy setup.

Conclusion

Every kind of solar system setup mentioned in this article has its utility and benefits. Using a simple photovoltaic structure or solar pool heating system won’t help if you’re looking for a solar energy setup for a large industry. A concentrated solar system will be the best solution in this case.

Irrespective of how big or small your energy needs are, there is always a system that may fit your requirements.

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