Solar Energy
The most common types of solar energy seen in homes are solar electricity and solar hot water. Photovoltaic systems convert sunlight into electricity; on a small scale, you are probably familiar with photovoltaic cells that power many wristwatches and calculators. On a larger scale, photovoltaics can power homes and buildings. Solar electric panels and solar roofing shingles are two examples of this technology.
Solar energy can also be used for heating – such as heating water for a home. Solar hot water systems can be as simple as pumping water through a solar collector on the roof, where the water heats up and then flows to a storage tank for later use in the home. Solar hot water systems can reduce by two-thirds the need to heat water by other means. These systems are often affordable and cost-effective.
Other applications of solar energy include concentrated solar power and solar lighting.
Some federal and state tax credits and incentives exist for solar power. To learn how well solar could work for your home or building, see FindSolar.com (brought to you in part by the U.S. Department of Energy).
Solar power made up 0.1 percent of U.S. energy production in 2006.
Sources:
-- “Solar Electricity Basics,” on the Solar Electric Power Association web site. Accessed Aug. 29, 2007. http://www.solarelectricpower.org/index.php?page=basics
-- “Solar Energies Technology Program” Web site. U.S. Department of Energy – Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy site. Accessed Aug. 29, 2007. http://www1.eere.energy.gov/solar/
