Don't Be Sour, Use Solar Power!
By: JR and MM
Better than Fossils Fuels
How Does it Work?
Solar panels are made of a PV cells (photovoltaic). These convert sunlight into DC (direct current). These only work with sunlight, so only in the day time. Then a device connected to the panel converts DC electricity to AC (alternating current).
They are currently being used in South Dakota and work great!
Pros
- It's renewable, unlike fossil fuels
- It's here everyday and abundant
- It is sustainable
- It is better for the environment than fossil fuels
- Low maintenance
- Reduces electricity cost
- Silent
- Technology is improving
Cons:
- Expensive- but getting cheaper
- Requires space
- Only works when its sunny out
Price: $7-$9 per watt
How long do they last?
20-25 years
Materials Needed
- Solar panel - these are the foundation of your solar setup, they create the energy when exposed to light
- Charge controller - this regulates the power coming from the solar panels with the right voltage to send to a battery
- Battery- stores the power created
- Inverter- converts direct power to AC power for the set-up of the house
- Grid-tied systems- tie your solar power to a nearby power grid
Sources
http://energyinformative.org/solar-energy-pros-and-cons/
https://www.solarpowerauthority.com/how-much-does-it-cost-to-install-solar-on-an-average-us-house/
http://www.solarcity.com/commercial/how-does-solar-energy-work
http://classroom.synonym.com/items-needed-make-solar-panel-system-6569.html
http://solarenergy.net/solar-power-resources/10-things-to-know-before-going-solar/