How solar energy is used. Use of solar energy Use of sun water and earth

The use of solar energy on Earth is a short report that will tell you about the possibilities of its use for human benefit.

Use of Solar Energy on Earth

The sun is a luminous huge ball of gas in which quite complex processes take place and energy is constantly released. Thanks to it, life exists on our planet: the atmosphere and surface of the planet heats up, winds blow, oceans and seas heat up, plants grow, and so on.

Solar energy contributes to the formation of fossil fuels, converted into heat and cold, electricity and motive power. The luminary evaporates water, turns moisture into water drops, and forms fogs and clouds. In a word, the energy of the Sun creates a gigantic moisture cycle on the planet, a system of air and water heating of the planet.

When sunlight hits plants, it triggers the process of photosynthesis, growth and development. By warming the soil, it shapes its climate, giving vitality to microorganisms, plant seeds and all the creatures that inhabit the soil. Without solar energy, living organisms would be in a state of hibernation (anabiosis).

Examples of the use of solar energy in the national economy

Solar energy is a naturally renewable source of energy and, importantly, environmentally friendly. Scientists from around the world are working to expand its use. Many countries have created government programs for the development of solar energy technologies.

The highest consumption of solar energy is observed in Turkey and Israel. And a record number of houses equipped with a solar water heating system are in Cyprus.

In agricultural activities, namely in the agro-industrial complex, solar energy is also used. It is planned to introduce it into all sectors of the national economy. The free areas of walls and roofs of houses and outbuildings make it possible to accumulate sufficient amounts of electricity, and free of charge. Photovoltaic systems can be used to operate electric shepherds in pastures, pumps, electric knives, honey extractors in apiaries, and to provide residential buildings with electricity.

Air collectors powered by solar energy create an environment for people and farm animals to live in, and also maintain humidity and temperature at the same predetermined level.

Greenhouses and greenhouses equipped with heliopanels accumulate and retain heat, providing a microclimate for plants.

Devices based on solar energy are used for ventilation and heating of vegetable and grain storage facilities, maintaining the set parameters by humans.

We hope that the “Using Solar Energy” essay helped you prepare for the lesson. And you can leave your message about solar energy using the comment form below.

The sun is one of the safest and most inexhaustible sources of energy. Its proper use is a matter of environmental safety and economic efficiency of any industry or country. An energy source such as the sun has a number of significant advantages over other popular ones. It will not go out and can give a person a huge number of kilowatt hours, it is environmentally friendly and economical, the Sun is accessible to every corner of the Earth and is able to preserve natural resources, which are depleted with every cut down tree and mined kilogram of coal.

Solar energy is renewable, that is, it can exist without human intervention in nature, unlike nuclear energy, the sun cannot harm the environment and keeps forests and rivers clean in their original form.

Examples of using

Pick up a regular solar-powered one - this is the most basic example of using solar energy and converting it into electricity; dark surfaces can effectively absorb rays and use the energy of the sun, converting it into heat. Special technologies, which are advanced achievements in science and technology, have long been used to collect and store solar energy, which has successfully replaced gasoline in cars and to heat and light homes.

Using the geographical features of the location of certain buildings, coupled with modern materials, allows humanity to completely switch to the energy of sunlight, while all modern means of communication: television, the Internet and other amenities will continue to function as usual. Such buildings are environmentally friendly and highly economical.

Special elements that convert solar energy are successfully used in space technologies; modern satellites and space stations are equipped with special batteries powered by the rays of the common light. Solar energy is very convenient to use and is available even in the wild and most remote corners of the globe, where laying communications and power lines is very difficult or impossible.

Using electrical energy in its pure form is not always convenient, which is why many systems use mixed sources of electricity, combining the Sun and traditional types of energy.

The sun is a natural huge source of energy. Hundreds of different processes take place every minute inside this gas ball. Without the Sun, life on Earth is impossible, since it is the source of energy for all living organisms. All earthly natural processes are carried out thanks to solar energy. Atmospheric circulation, water cycle, photosynthesis, heat regulation on the planet - all this would be impossible without the Sun. The use of solar energy on Earth is as common as breathing in and out for humans. But it can give humanity even more. It can be successfully used to produce industrial energy, thermal or electrical.

The potential of solar energy

Developments on the use of solar energy began in the 20th century. Since then, hundreds of studies have been conducted by scientists from all over the world. They have proven that the efficiency of using solar energy can be very, very high. This source can provide energy supply to the entire planet much better than all currently existing resources combined. Moreover, this type of energy is publicly available and free.

Harnessing solar energy

The reserves of natural resources capable of providing energy supply on Earth are decreasing every day. Therefore, active development of various ways to use solar energy is currently underway. This resource is an excellent alternative to traditional sources. Therefore, research in this area is incredibly important for society.

The achievements that exist at the moment have made it possible to create systems for using solar energy, which are made into two types:

Active (photovoltaic systems, solar power plants and collectors).
Passive (selection of building materials and design of premises for maximum use of solar energy).

The conversion and use of solar energy in this way has made it possible to use an inexhaustible resource with high productivity and return on investment.

Operating principle of passive systems

There are several types of passive use of solar energy. Most of them are incredibly easy to use, yet quite effective. There are also more sophisticated options that help you get more benefits. For example:

The first thing that comes to mind is the container in which water is stored. If you paint it a dark shade, then in this simple way solar energy will be converted into thermal energy, and the water will heat up.
The next option is beyond the power of an ordinary person to do on their own, as it requires a scrupulous analysis by a specialist. This technology should be taken into account at the stage of design and construction of a house. Based on climatic conditions, the building is designed in such a way that it itself acts as a solar collector. After that, the necessary materials are selected to facilitate maximum accumulation of solar energy.

Thanks to such methods, it becomes possible to use solar energy for heating and lighting of premises. Also, such developments contribute to energy saving. Since such a design can not only convert solar energy, but also retain heat inside the building, which can also significantly reduce costs.

Ways to actively use solar energy

The basis of this principle of energy supply are collectors. Such equipment absorbs energy and converts it into heat, which can be used to heat a house or heat water, and also converts solar energy into electrical energy. Collectors are widely used both industrially and in private areas and agriculture.

In addition to collectors, another equipment of the active system can be called panels with photocells. This device allows you to use solar energy at home and on an industrial scale. Such panels are very simple, low maintenance and durable.

Solar power plants are also a way to actively use solar energy. They are suitable only for large-scale conversion of radiation into thermal or electrical energy. In recent years, they have significantly gained popularity in the world and developments in this area make it possible to expand the capabilities and number of such stations.

Speaking about the fact that solar energy helps to save on the use of traditional resources, it is worth noting that such an advantage will be truly useful for people who have their own private plots. Owning your own home makes it possible to install energy conversion equipment that can satisfy, even if not completely, at least part of your energy needs. This will help to significantly reduce the consumption of centralized energy supply and reduce costs.

Solar energy is an excellent source for the following processes:

Passive heating and cooling of the home.

We should not forget that the Sun already warms everything that exists on Earth, and your home is no exception. Therefore, it is possible to enhance the beneficial effects by making certain amendments at the construction stage and using special techniques. Thus, you will get a house with much more comfortable thermal regulation without much investment.

Heating water using solar energy.

Using solar energy to heat water is the simplest and cheapest method available to humans. Such equipment can be purchased at reasonable prices. At the same time, they will be able to pay for themselves quickly enough, significantly reducing the cost of centralized energy supply.

Street lighting.

This is the simplest and cheapest way to use solar energy. Special devices that absorb solar radiation during the day and illuminate areas at night are very popular among owners of private houses even now.

Solar panels, unfortunately, are not universally available. Its cost is quite high, but at the same time, it is a convenient and profitable energy resource that can be successfully used in Russian latitudes. But if your financial situation does not allow such an expensive purchase, you can create such panels yourself.

How to do it?

First of all, you will need solar photocells. On average, for one panel you will need about 36 pieces. It is better to choose elements based on single crystals, as they have a higher efficiency and a longer service life.
The panel itself is made from plywood sheet. A bottom is cut out of it, the size of which you determine based on the number of photocells. Next, the panel is placed in a frame made of bars.
Then you need to make a substrate on which the photocells will be applied. This can be made from fiberboard.
Next you need to make the holes. Be sure to make sure they are symmetrical.
Next, the dyeing and drying procedure is carried out, which is repeated twice.
After the substrate has dried, the elements are laid out on it and soldering is carried out. An important point - lay them upside down.
At the final stage, the photocells are laid out in rows, and then everything is connected into complexes. All this is ultimately secured with silicone.

In this simple way, you can create equipment with your own hands that allows you to use solar energy in your home. With a little effort and patience, you will succeed.

Use of solar energy in Russia

At what stage of development is alternative energy in Russia now? Unfortunately, at the present time this is happening at a very low level. The country is not yet realizing all its existing potential. This is quite strongly influenced by such an aspect as the presence of large reserves of minerals that are used for traditional energy supply.

However, successful use of solar energy in Russia is possible. Thanks to its huge area, which includes different climatic zones and topography, the country has the opportunity to actively develop the production of alternative energy. With a competent and comprehensive approach, it is possible to ensure a significant percentage of the total energy supply using solar energy.

In recent years, scientists have been particularly interested in alternative energy sources. Oil and gas will run out sooner or later, so we have to think about how we will survive in this situation now. In Europe, wind turbines are actively used, someone is trying to extract energy from the ocean, and we will talk about solar energy. After all, the star that we see in the sky almost every day can help us save and improve the environmental situation. The importance of the sun for the Earth is difficult to overestimate - it provides warmth, light and allows all life on the planet to function. So why not find another use for it?

A little history

In the mid-19th century, physicist Alexandre Edmond Becquerel discovered the photovoltaic effect. And by the end of the century, Charles Fritts created the first device capable of converting solar energy into electricity. For this purpose, selenium coated with a thin layer of gold was used. The effect was weak, but it is this invention that is often associated with the beginning of the era of solar energy. Some scientists do not agree with this formulation. They call the world famous scientist Albert Einstein the founder of the era of solar energy. In 1921 he received the Nobel Prize for his explanation of the laws of the external photoelectric effect.

It would seem that solar energy is a promising path of development. But there are many obstacles to its entry into every home - mainly economic and environmental. We will find out below what the cost of solar panels is, what harm they can cause to the environment and what other methods of generating energy exist.

Methods of accumulation

The most pressing task associated with taming the energy of the sun is not only its receipt, but also its accumulation. And this is precisely what is most difficult. Currently, scientists have developed only 3 methods for fully taming solar energy.

The first is based on the use of a parabolic mirror and is a bit like playing with a magnifying glass, which is familiar to everyone from childhood. Light passes through the lens, converging at one point. If you put a piece of paper in this place, it will catch fire, since the temperature of the crossed rays of the sun is incredibly high. A parabolic mirror is a concave disk that resembles a shallow bowl. This mirror, unlike a magnifying glass, does not transmit, but reflects sunlight, collecting it at one point, which is usually directed at a black pipe with water. This color is used because it absorbs light best. The water in the pipe is heated by the sun's rays and can be used to generate electricity or for heating small houses.

Flat heater

This method uses a completely different system. The solar energy receiver looks like a multilayer structure. The principle of its operation looks like this.

Passing through the glass, the rays hit the darkened metal, which is known to absorb light better. Solar radiation turns into and heats the water, which is located under the iron plate. Then everything happens as in the first method. The heated water could be used either for space heating or to generate electrical energy. True, the effectiveness of this method is not so high that it can be used everywhere.

As a rule, the solar energy obtained in this way is heat. To generate electricity, the third method is much more often used.

Solar cells

We are most familiar with this method of obtaining energy. It involves the use of various batteries or solar panels, which can be found on the roofs of many modern houses. This method is more complicated than previously described, but is much more promising. It is this that makes it possible for the sun to be converted into electricity on an industrial scale.

Special panels designed to catch rays are made from enriched silicon crystals. Sunlight hitting them knocks the electron out of orbit. Another immediately strives to take its place, thus creating a continuous moving chain, which creates a current. If necessary, it is immediately used to power devices or accumulated in the form of electricity in special batteries.

The popularity of this method is justified by the fact that it allows you to get more than 120 W from just one square meter of solar battery. At the same time, the panels have a relatively small thickness, which allows them to be placed almost anywhere.

Types of Silicon Panels

There are several types of solar panels. The first ones are made using monocrystalline silicon. Their efficiency is approximately 15%. These are the most expensive.

The efficiency of elements made from polycrystalline silicon reaches 11%. They cost less because the material for them is obtained using simplified technology. The third type is the most economical and has minimal efficiency. These are panels made of amorphous silicon, that is, non-crystalline. In addition to low efficiency, they have another significant drawback - fragility.

To increase efficiency, some manufacturers use both sides of the solar panel - back and front. This allows you to capture light in large volumes and increases the amount of energy received by 15-20%.

Domestic manufacturers

Solar energy on Earth is becoming increasingly widespread. Even in our country they are interested in studying this industry. Despite the fact that the development of alternative energy is not very active in Russia, some success has been achieved. Currently, several organizations are engaged in the creation of panels for generating solar energy - mainly scientific institutes of various fields and factories for the production of electrical equipment.

NPF "Quark"
OJSC Kovrov Mechanical Plant.
All-Russian Research Institute of Electrification of Agriculture.
NPO Mashinostroeniya.
JSC VIEN.
OJSC Ryazan Metal-Ceramic Devices Plant.
JSC Pravdinsky Experimental Plant of Power Sources "Posit".

This is only a small part of the enterprises taking an active part in the development of alternative

Environmental impact

The abandonment of coal and oil energy sources is not only due to the fact that these resources will sooner or later run out. The fact is that they greatly harm the environment - they pollute the soil, air and water, contribute to the development of diseases in people and reduce immunity. That is why alternative energy sources must be safe from an environmental point of view.

Silicon, which is used to produce solar cells, is itself safe because it is a natural material. But after cleaning it, waste remains. They can cause harm to humans and the environment if used incorrectly.

In addition, in an area completely filled with solar panels, natural lighting may be disrupted. This will lead to changes in the existing ecosystem. But in general, the environmental impact of devices designed to convert solar energy is minimal.

Economical

The highest costs are associated with the high cost of raw materials. As we have already found out, special panels are created using silicon. Despite the fact that this mineral is widespread in nature, its extraction poses great challenges. The fact is that silicon, which makes up more than a quarter of the mass of the earth's crust, is not suitable for the production of solar cells. For these purposes, only the purest material obtained industrially is suitable. Unfortunately, it is extremely difficult to obtain pure silicon from sand.

The price of this resource is comparable to uranium used in nuclear power plants. This is why the cost of solar panels currently remains at a fairly high level.

Modern technologies

The first attempts to tame solar energy appeared quite a long time ago. Since then, many scientists have been actively searching for the most effective equipment. It should not only be cost-effective, but also compact. Its efficiency should tend to the maximum.

The first steps towards an ideal device for receiving and converting solar energy were taken with the invention of silicon batteries. Of course, the price is quite high, but the panels can be placed on the roofs and walls of houses, where they will not disturb anyone. And the effectiveness of such batteries is undeniable.

But the best way to increase the popularity of solar energy is to make it cheaper. German scientists have already proposed replacing silicon with synthetic fibers that can be integrated into fabric or other materials. The efficiency of such a solar battery is not very high. But a shirt interspersed with synthetic fibers can at least provide electricity to a smartphone or player. Work is also being actively carried out in the field of nanotechnology. It is likely that they will allow the sun to become the most popular source of energy in this century. Specialists from Scates AS from Norway have already stated that nanotechnology will reduce the cost of solar panels by 2 times.

Solar energy for home

Many people probably dream of housing that will provide for itself: there is no dependence on centralized heating, no difficulties with paying bills and no harm to the environment. Already now, in many countries, housing is being actively built that consumes only energy obtained from alternative sources. A striking example is the so-called solar house.

During the construction process, it will require larger investments than the traditional one. But after several years of operation, all costs will be recouped - you will not have to pay for heating, hot water and electricity. In a solar house, all these communications are tied to special photovoltaic panels placed on the roof. Moreover, the energy resources obtained in this way are not only spent on current needs, but also accumulated for use at night and in cloudy weather.

Currently, the construction of such houses is carried out not only in countries close to the equator, where it is easiest to extract solar energy. They are also being built in Canada, Finland and Sweden.

Advantages and disadvantages

The development of technologies that allow the widespread use of solar energy could be carried out more actively. But there are certain reasons why this is still not a priority. As we said above, the production of panels produces substances harmful to the environment. In addition, the finished equipment contains gallium, arsenic, cadmium and lead.

The need for recycling photovoltaic panels also raises many questions. After 50 years of operation they will become unfit for service and will have to be destroyed somehow. Won't this cause colossal harm to nature? It is also worth considering that solar energy is a fickle resource, the efficiency of which depends on the time of day and weather. And this is a significant drawback.

But, of course, there are advantages. Solar energy can be produced almost anywhere on Earth, and the equipment for obtaining and converting it can be so small that it fits on the back of a smartphone. What is also important is that it is a renewable resource, meaning the amount of solar energy will remain unchanged for at least thousands of years.

Prospects

The development of solar energy technologies should lead to lower costs for creating cells. Glass panels that can be installed on windows are already appearing. The development of nanotechnology has made it possible to invent a paint that will be sprayed onto solar panels and can replace the silicon layer. If the cost of solar energy actually decreases several times, its popularity will also increase many times over.

Creating small panels for individual use will allow people to use solar energy in any environment - at home, in the car or even outside the city. Thanks to their distribution, the load on centralized power grids will be reduced, since people will be able to charge small electronics on their own.

Shell experts believe that by 2040, about half of the world's energy will be generated from renewable resources. Already in Germany, solar energy consumption is actively growing, and battery capacity is more than 35 Gigawatts. Japan is also actively developing this industry. These two countries are the leaders in solar energy consumption in the world. The United States will probably soon join them.

Other alternative energy sources

Scientists continue to puzzle over what else can be used to generate electricity or heat. Let us give examples of the most promising alternative energy sources.

Wind turbines can now be found in almost every country. Even on the streets of many Russian cities, lanterns are installed that provide themselves with electricity using wind energy. Surely their cost is higher than average, but over time they will make up for this difference.

Quite a long time ago, a technology was invented that makes it possible to obtain energy using the difference in water temperatures on the surface of the ocean and at depth. China is actively planning to develop this area. In the coming years, they are planning to build the largest power plant using this technology off the coast of China. There are other ways to use the sea. For example, in Australia they are planning to create a power plant that generates energy from the power of currents.

There are many others or heat. But compared to many other options, solar energy is a truly promising direction in the development of science.

Hello, dear readers of the Legionerov.ru blog. Today we will talk about the sun and solar energy. One of the main natural, and most importantly, inexhaustible energy generators is the sun. It emits a huge amount of energy and an impressive part of it falls on the surface of the earth, namely about 700 quadrillion kW/hour. And we can use all this solar energy for our own purposes.

What can solar energy be used for?

There is a huge range of applications of the “power” of the sun to simplify and improve the quality of human life. The most common use of solar energy is to heat water. Moreover, the heating of water can be completely of natural origin - these are mostly ponds, seas, rivers (in general, reservoirs). Since the dawn of mankind, people have used heated water in reservoirs for drinking, washing and other needs. Today, people are already using local water heating specifically for their needs. The simplest example, which is probably familiar to everyone, is a black barrel on the roof. Today there are much more efficient methods of heating hot water than the “black barrel”, but more on that later.

Another equally important use of solar energy is the conversion of solar energy into electrical current. The simplest example is the well-known solar-powered calculator. In addition to the calculator, solar energy can be used for lighting, heating, and transportation (electric vehicles). To summarize, the sun can replace oil, gas, coal and other not infinite natural resources for us. And I am sure that this will be the case soon - the process has already begun.

How can you use solar energy?

The most well-known use of solar energy is solar panels. They can be installed both on the roof of a building and on the surface of the ground, but must be installed in an open area and, as a rule, installed at a certain angle that will ensure maximum collection of solar energy. At the moment, there already exist (unfortunately there are not many of them yet) solar power plants that provide electricity to entire cities. But at the moment it is advisable to create them only in the southern regions, where there are the greatest number of sunny days a year.

Also, many people are already starting to use solar panels for their private homes. But for now, as a rule, they are used only as an additional or backup power source. Often, only 1 or 2 solar panels are installed, which can only provide backup lighting in the house. But I repeat - the process has already started and this is the main thing. In a relatively short time, the sun will replace modern energy sources.

Electric vehicles can also be included in this part of use. But with the use of solar panels, for example on the roof, for additional charging during the day and especially during sunny times. Electric cars can already be seen on the roads in small numbers, but so far, as a rule, their main charging occurs exclusively from a power outlet. Although these outlets can be supplied with electricity from a solar power plant. Electric cars are the future. See also the article about modern electric cars.

Other solar batteries are used:

in portable batteries (for charging phones and other gadgets)
installed on lamp posts for street lighting, on small garden lanterns, etc.
at traffic lights regulating traffic
generally used with almost all devices that require power supply

Another important area of how solar energy can be used is heating and hot water supply. For this, solar collectors can be used, which, like solar panels, are installed on the roof of houses. Only in the collectors does liquid circulate, which is heated by solar energy and transferred to a storage tank (indirect heating tank). The second option for solar heating is geothermal heat pumps. But they use solar energy indirectly. That is, a heat pump takes the heat of the earth and, using it, heats the house, heats hot water and can even cool the house. What does solar energy have to do with it? Yes, despite the fact that the earth is the main accumulator of solar heat.

Well, the most important thing is that solar energy gives life to all living things on earth. Thank you to everyone who read this article, in which I tried to reveal the spectrum of solar energy use.

How can you use solar energy

One of the main natural and most importantly inexhaustible energy generators is the sun. How can you use solar energy to save money and

Use of solar energy on Earth

The sun's energy is just a stream of photons. And at the same time, this is one of the fundamental factors ensuring the very existence of life in our biosphere. Therefore, it is quite natural that sunlight is actively used by humans not only in the climatic aspect, but also as an alternative source of energy.

Where is solar energy used?

The scope of application of solar energy is very extensive, and every year it becomes larger. Thus, just recently, a country shower with a solar heater was perceived as something extraordinary, and the possibility of using sunlight for home electrical networks seemed fantastic. Today, you won’t surprise anyone not only with an autonomous solar station, but also with solar-powered mobile chargers and even small appliances (for example, watches) powered by the photovoltaic effect.

In general, the use of solar energy is in great demand in areas such as:

Agriculture;
Energy supply of sanatoriums and boarding houses;
Space industry;
Environmental protection and ecotourism;
Electrification of remote and hard-to-reach regions;
Street, garden and decorative lighting;
Housing and communal services (DHW, house lighting);
Mobile technology (solar-powered gadgets and charging modules).

Previously, solar energy was used mainly in the space industry (power supply for satellites, stations, etc.) and in industry, but over time, alternative energy began to be actively developed in everyday life. Some of the first facilities equipped with solar installations were southern boarding houses and sanatoriums, especially those located in secluded areas.

Solar installations and their advantages

The successful use of the first solar modules proved that solar energy has many advantages over traditional sources. Previously, the main advantages of solar power plants were only environmentally friendly and inexhaustible (as well as free) of sunlight.

But in fact, the list of advantages is much wider:

Autonomy, since no external energy communications are required;
Stable power supply, due to its specific nature, solar current is not subject to voltage surges;
Cost-effective, since funds are spent only once, during installation of the installation;
Solid service life (over 20 years);
All-season use, solar installations work effectively even in frost and cloudy weather (with a slight decrease in efficiency);
Simplicity and ease of maintenance, since it is only necessary to occasionally clean the front sides of the panels from dirt.

The only drawback is the dependence on the sun and the fact that such installations do not work at night. But this problem is solved by connecting special batteries in which the solar energy generated during the day is accumulated.

Photoenergy

Photoenergy is one of two ways to use radiation from the sun. This is a direct current generated under the influence of sunlight. This transformation occurs in so-called photocells, which, in essence, are a two-layer structure of two semiconductors of different types. The lower semiconductor is p-type (with a lack of electrons), the upper one is n-type with an excess of electrons.

The electrons of the n-conductor absorb the energy of the sun's rays falling on them and leave their orbits, and the energy impulse is sufficient for them to move into the zone of the p-conductor. This produces a directed electron flow called photocurrent. In other words, the entire structure works as a kind of electrodes in which electricity is generated under the influence of the sun.

Silicon is used to produce such photocells. This is explained by the fact that silicon, firstly, is widespread, and secondly, its industrial processing does not require large costs.

Silicon photocells are:

Monocrystalline. They are made from single crystals and have a uniform structure with a slightly higher efficiency (about 20%), but they are more expensive.
Polycrystalline. They have an uneven structure due to the use of polycrystals and a slightly lower efficiency (15-18%), but are much cheaper than monovariants.
Thin film. They are made by sputtering amorphous silicon onto a thin-film substrate. They are distinguished by a flexible structure and the lowest production cost, but have twice the dimensions compared to crystalline analogues of the same power.

The scope of application of each type of cell is very extensive and is determined by its operational features.

Solar collectors

Solar collectors are also used as solar energy converters, but their operating principle is completely different. They convert the incident light not into electrical energy, but into thermal energy by heating the coolant liquid. They are used either for hot water supply or for heating houses. The main element of any collector is an absorber, also known as a heat sink. The absorber is either a flat plate or a tubular evacuated system, inside which a coolant circulates (this is either plain water or antifreeze). Moreover, the absorber must be painted black with a special paint to increase absorption coefficients.

It is based on the type of absorbers that collectors are divided into flat and vacuum. For flat ones, the heat absorber is made in the form of a metal plate, to which a metal coil with coolant is soldered from below. Vacuum absorbers are made of several glass tubes connected to each other at the ends. The tubes are made double, a vacuum is created between the walls, and a rod with coolant is placed inside. All rods communicate with each other through special connectors at the pipe joints.

Absorbers of both types are placed in a durable lightweight housing (usually made of aluminum or impact-resistant plastic) and are reliably thermally insulated from the walls. The front side of the case is covered with transparent shock-resistant glass with maximum permeability for photons. This ensures better absorption of solar energy.

Features of operation

The operating principle of both types of collectors is similar. Heating up to high temperatures in the collector, the coolant passes through the connecting hoses into the heat exchange tank, which is filled with water. It passes through the tank through a serpentine tube, giving off its heat to the water. The cooled coolant leaves the tank and is fed back into the collector. In essence, this is a kind of “solar” boiler,” only instead of a heating coil, a coil in the tank is used, and instead of an electrical network, sunlight is used.

Design differences also determine the difference in the use of vacuum and flat-plate collectors. The use of solar radiation using vacuum models is possible all year round, including in winter and in the off-season. Flat options work better in the summer. However, they are cheaper and simpler than vacuum ones, so they are optimally suited for seasonal purposes.

Solar energy in cities (eco-houses)

Solar energy is actively used not only for private houses, but also for urban buildings. How people use solar energy in megacities is not difficult to guess. It is also used for heating and hot water supply of buildings, often for entire blocks.

In recent years, the concept of eco-houses powered entirely by alternative energy sources has been actively developed and implemented. They use combined systems to efficiently obtain solar, wind and thermal energy from the earth. Often such houses not only fully cover their energy needs, but also transfer the surplus to city networks. Moreover, quite recently projects of such eco-buildings have appeared in Russia.

Solar stations and their types

In the southern regions with high insolation, not just individual solar power plants are built, but entire stations that generate energy on an industrial scale. The amount of solar energy produced by them is very large and many countries with a suitable climate have already begun a gradual transition of the entire energy system to this alternative option. Based on the principle, the stations are divided into photothermal and photoelectric. The former work using the collector method and supply homes with heated water for hot water supply, while the latter directly generate electricity.

There are several types of solar stations:

Tower. Allows you to obtain superheated water steam supplied to generators. A tower with a water reservoir is located in the center of the station; heliostats (mirror) are placed around it, which focus the rays on the reservoir. These are quite effective stations, their main drawback is the difficulty of accurately positioning the mirrors.
Disc-shaped. They consist of a solar energy receiver and a reflector. A reflector is a dish-shaped mirror that concentrates radiation on the receiver. Such solar energy concentrators are located at a short distance from the receiver, and their number is determined by the required power of the installation.
Parabolic. Tubes with a coolant (usually oil) are placed at the focus of a long parabolic mirror. The heated oil gives off heat to the water, which boils and rotates the generators.
Aerostatic. In fact, these are the most efficient and mobile solar stations on Earth. Their main element is a balloon with a photovoltaic layer filled with water vapor. It rises high into the atmosphere (usually above the clouds). Heated steam from the ball is supplied to the turbine through a flexible steam line, condenses at the outlet and the water is pumped back into the ball. Once in the ball, the water evaporates and the cycle continues.
On photo batteries. These are already familiar solar-powered installations that are used for private homes. They provide electricity and water heating in the required volumes.

Today, various types of solar stations (including combined ones, combining several types) are playing an increasingly important role in the energy production of many countries. And some states are restructuring their energy sector in such a way that in a few years they will almost completely switch to alternative systems.

How is solar energy used by humans in everyday life and in the biosphere?

Using solar energy on Earth The energy of the sun is just a stream of photons. And at the same time, this is one of the fundamental factors ensuring the very existence of life in our

Methods and features of using solar energy on earth

The sun is one of the renewable alternative energy sources. Today, alternative heat sources are widely used in agriculture and for the domestic needs of the population.

The use of solar energy on earth plays an important role in human life. Using its heat, the sun, as a source of energy, heats the entire surface of our planet. Thanks to its thermal power, winds blow, seas, rivers, lakes heat up, and all life on earth exists.

People began to use renewable heat sources many years ago, when modern technologies did not yet exist. The sun is the most accessible supplier of thermal energy on earth today.

Areas of solar energy use

Every year the use of solar energy is gaining more and more popularity. Just a few years ago it was used to heat water for country houses and summer showers, and now renewable heat sources are used to generate electricity and hot water supply to residential buildings and industrial facilities.

Today, renewable heat sources are used in the following areas:

in agriculture, for the purpose of power supply and heating of greenhouses, hangars and other buildings;
for power supply of sports facilities and medical institutions;
in the field of aviation and space industry;
in lighting streets, parks, and other city facilities;
for electrification of populated areas;
for heating, electricity and hot water supply of residential buildings;
for household needs.

Features of application

The light that the sun emits on earth is converted into thermal energy using passive as well as active systems. Passive systems include buildings in the construction of which building materials are used that most effectively absorb solar radiation energy. In turn, active systems include collectors that convert solar radiation into energy, as well as photocells that convert it into electricity. Let's take a closer look at how to properly use renewable heat sources.

Passive systems

Such systems include solar buildings. These are buildings built taking into account all the features of the local climatic zone. For their construction, materials are used that make it possible to make maximum use of all thermal energy for heating, cooling, and lighting of residential and industrial premises. These include the following construction technologies and materials: insulation, wooden floors, light-absorbing surfaces, and the orientation of the building to the south.

Such solar systems allow for maximum use of solar energy, and they quickly pay back the costs of their construction by reducing energy costs. They are environmentally friendly and also allow you to create energy independence. It is because of this that the use of such technologies is very promising.

Active systems

This group includes collectors, batteries, pumps, pipelines for heat supply and hot water supply in everyday life. The first ones are installed directly on the roofs of houses, and the rest are located in basements to be used for hot water supply and heating.

Solar photocells

To more efficiently utilize all solar energy, solar energy sources such as photocells, or as they are also called, solar cells, are used. On their surface they have semiconductors, which, when exposed to the rays of the sun, begin to move, and thereby generate electric current. This principle of current generation does not contain any chemical reactions, which allows photocells to operate for a long time.

Such photovoltaic converters as solar energy sources are easy to use as they are light in weight, easy to maintain and are also very efficient in utilizing solar power.

Today, solar panels, as a source of solar energy on earth, are used to generate hot water, heating and electricity in warm countries such as Turkey, Egypt and Asian countries. In our region, the sun is used as an energy source to supply electricity to autonomous power systems, low-power electronics and aircraft drives.

Solar collectors

The use of solar energy by collectors is that they convert radiation into heat. They are divided into the following main groups:

Flat solar collectors. They are the most common. They are convenient to use for domestic heating needs, as well as for heating water for hot water supply;
Vacuum collectors. They are used for domestic needs when high temperature water is needed. They consist of several glass tubes, passing through which the rays of the sun heat them, and they, in turn, give off heat to the water;
Airborne solar collectors. They are used for air heating, air mass recovery and drying installations;
Integrated collectors. The simplest models. They are used to preheat water, for example, for gas boilers. In everyday life, heated water is collected in a special tank - storage tanks and is then used for various needs.

The use of solar energy by collectors is carried out by accumulating it in so-called modules. They are installed on the roof of buildings and consist of glass tubes and plates, which are painted black in order to absorb more sunlight.

Solar collectors are used to heat water for hot water supply and heating of residential buildings.

Advantages of solar installations

they are completely free and inexhaustible;
are completely safe to use;
autonomous;
economical, since funds are spent only on the purchase of equipment for installations;
their use guarantees the absence of power surges, as well as stability in the power supply;
durable;
easy to use and maintain.

The use of solar energy using such installations is gaining popularity every year. Solar panels make it possible to save a lot of money on heating and hot water supply; moreover, they are environmentally friendly and do not harm human health.

I bought several different solar-powered lamps on Ebay and successfully use them in the summer at the dacha. Of course, they do not create the effect of full illumination, because they are weak, but their light is quite enough. For example, I leave one on at night and it creates comfort in the house at night, and it turns out that it’s free. Still, sometimes there are such dark nights that it’s even scary to spend the night.

Using solar energy is of course good and allows you to save money. But it’s bad that there is a dependence on the weather, and not everyone can afford the necessary structures.

It will be fun to put this together yourself! But the only question is - how is this relevant in Russia, because we have problems with the sun...or are there not necessarily sunny days and enough rays will pass through the clouds to use photocells?

Relevant, and how!

Development of new types of batteries, improved and oriented to the Russian terrain, is underway. Almost everywhere in the world they use silicon solar cells, but in Kuban they are developing batteries based on perovskite, an alternative material, and even with a three-dimensional surface (rather than traditional flat ones). Such batteries can catch oblique rays of the sun - so they work great both during the setting or rising sun, and in cloudy weather.

The only negative is that the scientist who is involved in this development (Dmitry Lopatin) was given a deadline recently. So work is suspended.

I read an article about the use of solar energy by humanity. This is the safest and most durable form of energy. Over time, the need for solar energy will increase, since natural reserves: oil, gas, coal will soon run out, but solar energy will never run out.

It is very rational to use solar energy to heat water, so I think the collector industry will be promising in the future.

But, generating electricity has low efficiency. And the production of semiconductor materials is relatively harmful for them.

A very interesting direction is the study of Grätzel cells (light is absorbed by a dye, from which electrons are transferred to a wide-gap semiconductor). But the possibility of increasing their efficiency to an acceptable level raises great doubts. I participated in their development.

Here in Belarus we are just beginning to use this type of energy, in particular solar panels. This is a rarity in our small town, but I also saw a similar solar battery on one man’s garage roof. I asked him what and how. He says that it is safe and budget-friendly than conventional electricity. So I myself am thinking about switching to solar_energy.

In any case, in the current world you cannot do without electricity, but as an alternative, solar energy is quite acceptable. It is free and most importantly available to everyone. Unfortunately, so far I have only had experience using a solar-powered calculator, which is very convenient. No need to change batteries.

I have long been interested in using solar energy in an apartment, but calculations show that installing a solar panel and battery will be quite expensive and will not pay off soon, given the fact that there are about half of sunny days a year.

My parents have small lamps like these at their dacha. They are placed along the paths, during the day they are charged from the sun, and in the evening and at night they illuminate the path if anyone suddenly wants to take a walk at dusk. The thing is interesting, but again it is only relevant for the summer, when it is warm and sunny; in the fall, all the lamps are put away in the garage until the new summer season. I also read about solar-powered cars, I wonder if anyone in Russia uses these?

Using solar energy is certainly good. But that’s how developed it is today. It seems to me that it’s definitely not possible to go very far with this energy. We need to develop everything first.

Nikolay, if you carefully read the article, you might have noticed that solar-powered electric cars have not only been invented, they are already being produced, and even mass-produced, and the question of means is not a global issue and is quite surmountable.

So I read and understand that our world still does not stand still. It is definitely necessary to use the energy of the sun, and our scientists are doing this, but they are not squeezing everything out to 100 percent. There is still some work to be done in general.

Even when I was studying at the university with a degree in energy engineering, the topic of non-traditional energy sources was very attractive. Now that I work as an engineer, I dream of completing a project on this topic. So far, the company has not received such orders. This is understandable. We live in Russia and here, I think, little attention is paid to this issue. Unfortunately.

In my experience, successful application of solar energy on earth involves using street lights to illuminate the yard. But again - they only work in the summer. And if it’s cloudy outside, you won’t get any light at all. Unfortunately, such lighting devices serve more of a decorative function, because they are rarely used for their intended purpose.

Modern photocells are far from ideal, and solar panels are best used in space. But on earth they are still not relevant, since they are expensive to maintain and in no way justify their cost

Although we definitely need to work in this direction!

At my dacha, Chinese solar-powered lamps worked for 2 years. They charge during the day and light up at night. Reliability and stability of operation is extremely low. Is this a characteristic of all such lamps, or simply an indicator of their Chinese production?

I don't live in a warm country. I live in Ukraine and I am wondering if I can use solar panels to provide electricity to my suburban home or is this only possible in the summer?

I wonder how long the charge of the solar collector will last for the residents of St. Petersburg? We have very few sunny days. It turns out that the collector can only be used as an alternative, and not as a constant source of energy.

Using solar energy on earth: features and benefits

One of the most accessible alternative energy sources is the use of solar energy on earth.