photovoltaic orientation

Posted August 14, 2002 By admin

With the swiftly depleting numbers of Earth’s non-renewable fossil fuels, many people have been searching for other possible sources of energy that are clean, green and renewable, and will eventually take the places of those that will fail to exist in the years to come. One possibility has been brought up lately is solar energy. The vast amount of solar energy that goes by unused is unbelievable and could bring about a significant change in the world if taken advantage of. Now what we as humans need to do is make the first step towards bringing about this change and actually use the clean energy that nature so graciously provides us with.

The abundance of solar energy is vast. How vast one may ask? Well, the amount that reaches the earth’s surface in one year is near twice as much as that which may be provided from all that is left of the Earth’s non-renewable resources. Not only is this energy free, but also it can be used to provide heat, lighting, mechanical power and electricity. This energy can be used both actively and passively depending on how it is captured, converted, and distributed.

Active solar energy can be used to increase the supply of energy. It is collected by the use of photovoltaic panels, pumps, and fans that convert the sunlight into useful outputs such as heating swimming pools, domestic hot water use, ventilation and industrial process air and water for commercial facilities such as laundries, car washes and fitness centers.

Passive solar energy is used to displace traditional sources of energy in buildings without requiring additional mechanical equipment. This energy is gathered simply by the selection of certain materials with thermal properties, using building elements both interior and exterior to control heat generated by solar radiation, and noting the position of the building in relation to the sun. It can be used to heat a house or building with the proper window orientation. It can also be used to reduce or possibly eliminate the need for air-conditioning through external shading devices that reduce solar gains.

The benefits of solar energy are plentiful and could be the possible solution to the eminent problem of the decrease in Earth’s non-renewable sources. With the limitless amount of solar energy available, it is only a wonder why so little of it is used, especially since it is harmless to the environment.

As the Earth approaches troubled times, the once hidden assets of the sun are slowly being revealed. Now, it is up to us to take the initiative to take advantage of what nature is placing in front of us. Read more about how, The Sun Can Help Us Go Green With Renewable Energy.

JMB PV 10 Orientation

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