Alternative energy solar power

Is solar power a viable alternative to fossil fuels?

Virtually nonpolluting and abundantly available, solar power stands in stark contrast to the combustion of fossil fuels (namely coal, petroleum, and natural gas) that are driving global warming and has become increasingly attractive to individuals, businesses, and governments on the path to sustainability.

Is solar power renewable?

Solar power is renewable by nature. Sunlight is infinite, and enough solar radiation hits the planet's surface each hour to theoretically fill our global energy needs for nearly a year. No matter how much solar power we use to generate electricity, the sun will continue to shine. It doesn’t deplete.

What is solar energy?

Solar energy is a form of carbon-free, renewable energy, in which sunlight is turned into electricity, heat, or other forms of energy we can use.

What are active and passive solar techniques?

Active solar techniques include the use of photovoltaic systems, concentrated solar power, and solar water heating to harness the energy. Passive solar techniques include orienting a building to the Sun, selecting materials with favorable thermal mass or light-dispersing properties, and designing spaces that naturally circulate air.

Can solar power reduce natural gas usage?

Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) will be testing a new concentrated solar power system – one that can help natural gas power plants reduce their fuel usage by up to 20 percent. [needs update] Solar chemical processes use solar energy to drive chemical reactions.

What are the different types of solar energy technologies?

There are two main types of solar energy technologies—photovoltaics (PV) and concentrating solar-thermal power (CSP). You're likely most familiar with PV, which is utilized in solar panels. When the sun shines onto a solar panel, energy from the sunlight is absorbed by the PV cells in the panel.