Section 2: - Introduction to Solar Energy
What is Solar Energy?
Energy is defined as “the ability to do work”
Solar energy is radiant energy produced by the sun from a process called nuclear fusion
Solar energy is a renewable energy. (Renewable energy describes energy sources that do not deplete the Earth’s natural resources and do not create added waste products)
Solar energy is a sustainable energy. (Sustainable energy is the provision of energy such that it meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs)
Why Use Solar Enegy?
Solar energy enjoys many environmental and economic advantages over other forms of energy currently used.
These would include:
Environmentally Friendly
Non-polluting: Solar hot water generation produces no em issions
Non-consumptive: The suns radiation is a limitless resource
Going ‘Green’ for commercial project has now become a PR advantage
Economically Beneficial
Cost effective: Free energy source
Immediate and permanent savings
Technological advancements: Improvement in solar technologies offer reduced costs and greater efficiency
Easily Accessible
Security: The price of solar energy does not fluctuate
Already distributed: There are no expensive transportation costs for solar energy because the sun shines everywhere
Legislation
EU and Irish
When & Where is Solar Not Appropriate?
Geographical Location
Extreme high latitudes
Physical Location
North facing properties/installations
Significant over-shadowing (e.g. in forest, mountains or small building in amongst lots of high rise buildings)
Non-Consumption During Peak Periods
E.g. Any building with a considerable reduction in hot water demand during the summer months
Insufficient Room for Water Storage