Solar Power is the most abundant energy source, and yet it remains untapped by many. Here are some neat facts about solar energy.
How solar energy works
Solar technologies capture and convert sunlight into energy either through photovoltaic (PV) panels or concentrating solar-thermal radiation. Energy generated can be directly used or stored for future use.
Endless Supply
Due to an endless flow of light from the sun to the earth, solar energy is inarguably abundant for all to harness. It is reported that 173,000 terawatts of solar energy hit the globe at any given moment. To put into perspective, that totals more than 10,000 times our total energy use.
Cost-Effective Energy Generation
When solar panel systems first hit the market, they were costly and difficult for the average homeowner to integrate into their home. Fortunately, due to technological advances and government incentives, homeowners can now easily install solar panel systems in their homes. In 2010, it cost an average of $378 to produce less than 50,000 megawatts of solar energy. And now, for only $68, you can generate over 500,000 megawatts. According to the Energy Industries Association, a megawatt of solar power can power 164 U.S. homes.
Clean Energy, Clean Earth
Solar power is the most environmentally friendly energy generator. Unlike conventional energy generation alternatives, solar panels do not produce greenhouse gases or harmful air pollutants.
A Growing Number of Green Jobs
The emerging popularity of green energy generation due to the energy generation crisis has created abundant economic opportunities. It is reported that while traditional fossil fuel sectors employ 1.2 million Americans, over 3 million Americans are employed by the clean energy sector as of 2020. Roles in this industry include research, development, manufacturing, operation, installation, and maintenance.
The Largest Solar Farms in the World
China leads the world with the most solar energy generators and the largest solar farms. China ranks number 1, 3, 7, 8, and 10 among the world’s largest solar parks.
World’s Largest Solar-Powered Battery
In December 2021, The Manatee Solar Energy Center, located in Florida’s Manatee County, implemented 409MW / 900MWh battery energy storage system (BESS). With these new additions, The Manatee Solar Energy Center is now ranked as the world’s largest solar-powered battery. Coming up behind them are two projects in California that are reported to be even larger upon completion.
Want to know more?
Our team here at California Energy Contractors will be happy to provide you with more insights on all things solar energy-related. And who knows? You just might be interested in installing one in your home!
