Solar energy harnesses sunlight to generate electricity or heat.
How Solar Energy Works:
1. Photovoltaic (PV) Systems: Solar panels made of semiconductor materials like silicon convert sunlight directly into electricity. When sunlight hits the panels, it excites electrons, creating an electric current. PV systems are commonly used for residential and commercial power generation.
2. Solar Thermal Systems: These systems use mirrors or lenses to concentrate sunlight, heating a fluid that produces steam to drive turbines and generate electricity. Solar thermal energy is often used in large-scale power plants.
Solar faces some obvious challenges and limitations. First and foremost is intermittency. Solar energy is not available at night and can be less effective on cloudy days, requiring storage solutions or backup power systems.
Australia is a global leader in solar energy adoption, leveraging its abundant sunlight.
The country has one of the highest rates of rooftop solar installations in the world. Businesses are increasingly investing in solar energy to reduce operational costs and meet sustainability goals. Large solar farms contribute significantly to the national grid.