Have you ever paused to marvel at the sheer brilliance of solar energy? It’s an endlessly clean, renewable resource that’s captured straight from the sun’s rays, and it’s revolutionising the way we think about and use power. Here in Australia, the embrace of solar energy is not just enthusiastic but also leading globally. With solar photovoltaic (PV) becoming the fastest-growing generation type across the nation, it’s clear we’re onto something big. According to the Clean Energy Council, solar PV contributed approximately 11.7% to our electricity mix in 2021 alone, boasting an impressive installed capacity of over 11 GW. What’s even more remarkable is our world-leading position in rooftop solar deployment per capita, proof of how integral solar has become in our lives.

But what’s driving this surge? Beyond the sunny skies and innovative technology, government policies and initiatives have been pivotal in accelerating solar energy’s growth. The Australian Energy Update 2022 hails solar PV as the largest contributor to our renewable energy generation, highlighting the power of supportive frameworks to catalyse change.

As you learn about solar energy, from the basics of how it’s created to its myriad applications, it’s essential to understand both photovoltaic and thermal methods—each playing a unique role in harnessing the sun’s bounty. Whether it’s turning sunlight into direct current (DC) electricity or capturing the sun’s warmth for heating, solar energy’s versatility and sustainability are unmatched.

If you are curious about integrating solar into your energy solutions, join us as we explore the fascinating journey of solar energy creation and shed light on the innovation and significance behind this sustainable powerhouse.

The Basics of Solar Energy

At its core, solar energy is about harnessing the sun’s vast power and converting it into usable energy forms. But how is solar energy created, and what makes it such an important player in our quest for sustainable energy solutions? Let’s break down the basics:

What is Solar Energy?

Solar energy originates from the sun’s radiation. This immense power source sends photons, or particles of light, hurtling through space to Earth, providing more than enough energy to meet global power needs—if harnessed correctly.

Unlike fossil fuels, solar energy is both clean and renewable. It generates electricity or heat without emitting greenhouse gases, and because the sun rises every day, it’s an inexhaustible resource.

Types of Solar Energy

Solar energy can be harnessed in two primary ways, each serving different purposes:

Photovoltaic (PV) Solar Energy

This method converts sunlight directly into electricity using solar panels. It’s the technology behind those rooftop solar installations you see in homes and businesses across Australia. PV systems are a key contributor to Australia’s renewable energy generation, with their ability to produce clean, direct current (DC) electricity from the sun’s rays.

Solar Thermal Energy

Unlike PV systems, solar thermal technology captures the sun’s heat. This heat can be used directly for warming spaces or water, or it can be converted into mechanical energy and then into electricity. It’s a versatile approach that complements photovoltaic technology, especially in applications like water heating and space heating.

Photovoltaic (PV) Solar Energy Conversion

Let’s look at photovoltaic (PV) technology and understand the incredible process through which sunlight is transformed into electricity.

How PV Solar Panels Work

• Direct Conversion. PV solar panels directly convert sunlight into electricity. When sunlight hits a solar panel, the photons (light particles) energise the panel’s cells, creating an electrical current.
• Silicon’s Role. At the heart of most PV cells is silicon, a semiconductor that’s adept at absorbing sunlight. The energy from the absorbed light frees electrons, generating a flow of electricity.

The Science Behind PV Energy Conversion

• N-Type and P-Type Layers. A PV cell typically comprises two layers of silicon. The top layer, doped with phosphorus, has extra electrons (n-type), while the bottom layer, doped with boron, has extra spaces for electrons, known as “holes” (p-type). The interaction between these layers creates an electric field.
• Electrical Current Creation. When sunlight energises electrons, they move across the electric field created by the n-type and p-type layers. This movement generates an electrical current, which is captured by the wiring in the solar panel.

From Sunlight to Usable Power

• DC to AC Conversion. The electricity generated by PV solar panels is in the form of direct current (DC). Before it can be used to power homes and businesses, it must be converted into alternating current (AC) using an inverter.
• Integrating with the Grid. Once converted to AC, the electricity can either be used immediately, stored in solar batteries for later use, or fed back into the power grid, contributing to the renewable energy supply.

Solar Thermal Energy Conversion

While photovoltaic technology captures the spotlight in conversations about solar energy, solar thermal energy conversion plays a complementary role. This technology harnesses sunlight not for electricity, but for heat, showcasing another facet of solar energy’s versatility.

Harnessing Sunlight for Heat

• The Basics. Solar thermal systems capture and concentrate sunlight to produce heat. This heat can then be used directly for warming spaces or water, or even converted into mechanical energy and subsequently into electricity, offering a broad range of applications.
• Collectors and Absorbers. At the core of a solar thermal system are collectors—devices designed to absorb sunlight and convert it into heat. These can range from simple flat-plate collectors for residential water heating to complex parabolic troughs used in industrial settings.

Differentiating Solar Thermal from PV Technology

Unlike PV systems that directly convert sunlight into electricity, solar thermal systems first convert sunlight into heat. This heat is then used as needed or converted into electricity, providing a different pathway for utilising solar energy.

Applications of Solar Thermal Energy

Solar thermal energy’s applications underscore its adaptability and efficiency in providing clean, renewable heat:

• Residential Water Heating. One of the most common uses of solar thermal technology is heating water for residential use. Solar water heaters can significantly reduce electricity or gas consumption.
• Space Heating. Solar thermal systems can also heat homes and buildings. By circulating heated water or air through radiators or underfloor heating systems, solar thermal technology can provide comfortable, efficient warmth.
• Industrial Processes. Solar thermal energy is adaptable beyond residential applications. In larger scales, it can supply heat for industrial processes.

The Impact of Solar Thermal Energy

Solar thermal energy conversion is a sustainable solution for reducing reliance on fossil fuels for heating. Here’s why it’s an important part of the energy mix:

• Efficiency in Heating. Solar thermal systems can efficiently convert sunlight into heat. They are an effective way to meet heating demands without emitting greenhouse gases.
• Complementing PV Systems. In a comprehensive solar energy setup, solar thermal and photovoltaic technologies can complement each other. This way, they cover both electricity and heat requirements to maximise the use of solar energy.

Components of a Solar PV System

What makes up a solar PV (photovoltaic) system? Let’s break down the key components that work together to capture sunlight and convert it into electricity for your home or business.

• Solar panels, comprised of many solar cells, are the most visible part of a PV system. They do the initial work of absorbing sunlight and converting it into DC (direct current) electricity.
• Inverters convert the DC electricity generated by the solar panels into AC (alternating current) electricity, which is what most homes and businesses use.
• A robust mounting system securely attaches the solar panels to your roof or the ground, ensuring they stay in place through all kinds of weather and capture the maximum amount of sunlight.
• Wiring, fuses, and safety disconnects safely and efficiently connect the solar panels and inverter to your home’s electrical system.

Interested in Solar?

At Solar Run, we’re all about making solar energy accessible and practical for everyone, whether it’s for your home or your business. Our expertise isn’t just limited to installing solar panels; we also specialise in solar water heating and providing efficient solutions for keeping your swimming pool just right with heat pumps.

Thinking about making the switch to solar or curious about how it can fit into your life? Solar Run has got your back. We’re here to chat about how you can use solar energy to your advantage. Reach out to us, and let’s get your solar journey started.