Energy is the cornerstone of life on Earth, and solar energy is a key natural source of this essential resource. Humanity has harnessed solar energy in various forms throughout history, but the development of solar panels and collectors has revolutionized its active use, supplementing traditional passive methods.
Did you know that the closest star to the Earth – the Sun belongs to the class of yellow dwarfs? Positioned in the center of the Solar System, it’s an almost perfect, scorching plasma sphere, primarily composed of hydrogen with a smaller portion of helium.
It is this “dwarf” star that plays a critical role in sustaining life on our planet, as solar energy in various forms is the source of energy for all living and non-living forms on Earth.
- Solar energy drives plant photosynthesis, the process through which plants convert sunlight into chemical energy, resulting in the creation of biomass on Earth.
- Minerals like oil, coal, and gas are essentially stored solar energy, accumulated over millions of years in the form of plant and animal fossils.
- Additionally, the sun plays a significant role in climate and weather patterns. Wind is generated by the sun’s uneven heating of the air and water circulation on Earth is influenced by solar energy. Consequently, the operation of hydro and wind power plants is intricately linked to solar energy.
What is Solar Energy?
To understand the Sun’s energy, we must look at the thermonuclear synthesis (fusion) reactions occurring within it. These reactions, happening under conditions of high temperature and pressure, involve hydrogen atoms fusing to form helium. This process releases a vast amount of energy as light and heat, which travels through space and arrives at Earth as solar energy. Here on Earth, this solar energy is then transformed into electrical or thermal energy.
Electricity is generated from solar energy using solar panels, commonly referred to as photovoltaic modules. These panels are equipped with photovoltaic cells that capture photons, the light particles. This absorption triggers a flow of free electrons, creating an electric current. This current can be transformed into alternating current (AC) for immediate use or stored in batteries for later. The method of transforming sunlight into electricity through this process is known as photovoltaic (PV) technology.
Solar thermal collectors are used to transform solar energy into thermal energy. These collectors function by absorbing solar radiation and heating a material designed to store this heat. The accumulated heat can be utilized in several ways, including providing hot water for homes and industrial buildings, and in heating systems. The technique of converting solar radiation into usable heat energy is referred to as solar thermal technology.
Passive solar energy relies on utilizing solar radiation without the need for external devices or equipment. An example of this is the strategic architectural design of buildings to maximize solar gain, especially during the winter months.
Advantages of Solar Energy
What are the reasons behind the growing appeal and popularity of solar energy usage?
- Solar energy stands out as an environmentally friendly energy source, distinguished by its lack of harmful environmental impacts. It does not produce carbon dioxide or other pollutants, unlike energy sources like natural gas, oil, and coal.
In recent decades, the substantial rise in carbon dioxide emissions has led to detrimental climate changes, including global warming. As solar energy does not emit greenhouse gases, its adoption is increasingly important in addressing these severe environmental issues.
- Furthermore, solar energy is a renewable resource, continually replenished, unlike finite fossil fuels (non-renewable sources) that regenerate at a rate too slow to sustainably meet future global energy demands. Thus, utilizing solar energy contributes to the preservation of our limited natural resources.
- Solar energy is an inexhaustible and constant source of energy. The Sun’s energy falling on the Earth in one hour is enough to power the world’s population for one year. Since the Sun is about 4.6 billion years old and is expected to continue its current phase of existence for several billion more years, it can be said that solar energy is an inexhaustible source of energy for our civilisation and the possibilities of its use are virtually unlimited.
- Solar energy offers widespread applicability across vast territories. It can be utilized wherever the sun shines, making it viable in virtually every corner of the Earth. This versatility enables electricity provision even in remote or isolated areas where traditional power grids might be unfeasible.
Moreover, the utilization of solar energy is progressively becoming more efficient and cost-effective with each passing year. Advances in solar technology have resulted in enhancements in the quality and efficiency of solar panels. Through the utilization of superior materials in manufacturing and enhanced efficiency, solar panels occupy less and less space while generating more electricity. Additionally, over recent decades, they have experienced a substantial decrease in cost, rendering them financially accessible and advantageous for diverse applications.
- Solar energy systems reduce the cost of electricity consumption. You don’t pay for electricity and you’re not subject to price fluctuations in the energy market.
- Solar energy systems are cost-effective in terms of operation, as the solar panels demand minimal maintenance after installation. Consequently, the operational and maintenance expenses are considerably lower compared to other electricity generation methods, leading to substantial savings.
- Moreover, solar power systems offer energy autonomy. They eliminate reliance on external energy sources, which natural occurrences or unexpected events might disrupt.
How to Use Solar Energy
In recent years, the adoption of solar energy has significantly increased, thanks to advancements in more efficient and cost-effective solar technologies, combined with a heightened awareness of environmental issues. Solar energy serves as a clean and sustainable substitute for traditional fossil fuels, playing a key role in lowering greenhouse gas emissions and lessening the dependence on non-renewable energy sources.
Furthermore, the range of applications for solar energy has expanded considerably. Nowadays, it is utilized not only in residential settings but also across various sectors including industry, agriculture, construction, medicine, road and automotive industries, aviation, and even in space exploration, namely:
- for power supply of domestic, commercial and industrial facilities;
- for lighting residential and industrial buildings, roads, courtyards and gardens;
- for heating water for domestic, commercial or industrial purposes;
- for supplying electricity to places where it is not possible to connect to traditional electricity grids;
- for providing electricity for medical and telecommunication devices;
- for charging the batteries of electric vehicles or for powering small solar-powered cars and boats;
- for storing electricity, and further for charging portable and various electronic devices.
Use of Solar Energy in Georgia and its Potential
Georgia boasts considerable potential for harnessing solar energy, thanks in large part to its geographical position and favorable climate, which ensure abundant sunlight year-round. The strong solar radiation levels create an ideal setting for generating electricity locally. By advancing its solar energy infrastructure, Georgia can tap into this natural resource to enhance the nation’s energy security, diversifying its energy sources in the process.
Embracing solar energy can greatly bolster the country’s economic development and be pivotal in advancing the agricultural sector. Leveraging solar energy’s potential benefits families, businesses, and the agribusiness sector alike. Moreover, the presence of sustainable energy solutions fosters an ideal climate for attracting foreign investments.
Maximizing the potential of solar energy necessitates significant public policies and support. This involves a range of government initiatives, financial backing, and tax incentives designed to motivate both private and public entities to invest in solar infrastructure.
Most importantly, by harnessing clean and renewable resources, Georgia can contribute to global efforts to mitigate climate change and foster a more sustainable future.
Solar Panel Installation
Installing solar panels is the best investment for switching to a clean, independent and low-cost energy source for both business and home power supply.
Suppose you’re prepared to make the switch to solar energy and substantially lower your electricity bills while aiding in the country’s energy independence and minimizing your environmental footprint. In that case, the Step Energy team is eager to assist you in establishing your very own solar power plant.
Our team, comprised of experienced professionals, is committed to delivering solutions tailored to your specific needs. As a full-service EPC (Engineering, Procurement, Construction) company, we will oversee the entire installation process, from the initial design stage through to execution.