PreferredConsumer.com | Don't Just Buy. Know.

Solar Energy: Articles - Page 1

Solar Energy Basics -- Sunlight—solar energy—can be used to generate electricity, provide hot water, and to heat, cool, and light buildings.
FULL ARTICLE

Introduction to Photovoltaic (solar cell) Systems -- Solar cells convert sunlight directly into electricity. Solar cells are often used to power calculators and watches. They are made of semiconducting materials similar to those used in computer chips. When sunlight is absorbed by these materials, the solar energy knocks electrons loose from their atoms, allowing the electrons to flow through the material to produce electricity.
FULL ARTICLE

Introduction to Passive Solar Heating and Daylighting -- Step outside on a hot and sunny summer day, and you'll feel the power of solar heat and light. Today, many buildings are designed to take advantage of this natural resource through the use of passive solar heating and daylighting.
FULL ARTICLE

Introduction to Solar Hot Water -- The shallow water of a lake is usually warmer than the deep water. That's because the sunlight can heat the lake bottom in the shallow areas, which in turn, heats the water. It's nature's way of solar water heating. The sun can be used in basically the same way to heat water used in buildings and swimming pools.
FULL ARTICLE

Space Heating and Cooling -- Just as solar energy can provide hot water for a building, it can heat the air in the building, as well. By using passive solar systems or more elaborate active solar systems, solar energy can help heat or cool buildings. A solar heating system can consist of passive systems, active systems, or a combination of both.
FULL ARTICLE