Solar Power Challenge                                Author Kieron McGeever             Last update: 21/11/2007 21:11:21

Solar Power

Renewable Energy

With the development of cheaper and more efficient solar panels it has become more practical to use them in school projects. They can be used to replace batteries in projects that require low out put and long duration of use, such as environmental control systems used in green houses, sun lounges and weather monitoring stations.

Solar Panel

The output from a solar cell is directly proportional to the amount of light that falls onto it. To get maximum output from any given amount of light the surface of the cell needs to be perpendicular to the light source. Therefore the design of the mountings for the cells should take into account the latitude of where the cells are going to be used. In this country an angle of around fifteen degrees to the horizontal will gain maximum energy from the sun at midsummer, but this can be adjusted by experimentation for place and time of year.

Environmental Impact

“Of all the renewable energy sources available, solar cells have the smallest environmental impacts. Electricity produced from photovoltaic cells does not result in air or water pollution, deplete natural resources, or endanger animal or human health. The only potential negative impacts are associated with some toxic chemicals, like cadmium and arsenic, which are used in the production process. These environmental impacts are minor and can be easily controlled through recycling and proper disposal.” (Northeast Sustainable Energy Association www.nesea.org/buildings/info/solarelectricity.html )