Sunshine Valley
Sun Days, Fun Days
What is Solar Energy?
Solar energy is used commonly for heating, cooking, the production of electricity, and even in the desalination of seawater.
Solar power works by trapping the sun's rays into solar cells where this sunlight is then converted into electricity. Additionally, solar power uses sunlight that hits solar thermal panels to convert sunlight to heat water or air.
Other methods include using sunlight that hits parabolic mirrors to heat water (producing steam), or simply opening a rooms blinds or window shades to allow entering sunlight to passively heat a room.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NLO9w963Aj0
How Solar Works
Items that may be powered by solar energy:
- refrigerator
- lamp
- computer
- anything plugged into an outlet!
Solar Panel Diagram
What provides the source of energy?
The SUN! Photons from sun rays beam down to earth, where solar panels collect the photons.
Connection to Grid
What happens to the excess energy?
Any extra energy not used for home use is sent to the electrical grid. Super cool because there is no waste.
Pros/Cons of Solar Power
The Pros
- Solar power is a renewable resource. As long as the Sun exists, its energy will reach Earth.
- Solar power generation releases no water or air pollution because there is no chemical reaction from the combustion of fuels.
- Solar energy can be used very efficiently for practical uses such as heating and lighting.
- The benefits of solar power are seen frequently to heat pools, spas, and water tanks all over.
The Cons
- Solar power does not produce energy if the sun is not shining. Nighttime and cloudy days seriously limit the amount of energy produced.
- Solar power stations can be very expensive to build.
Event Information
Sandcastle Competition
Come join us for a fun day in the sun making your best artistic skills with sand! Make sure to bring your sunscreen, a hat, and a water bottle.
When?
Saturday, Jun 23, 2018, 11:30 AM
Where?
Sunshine Valley south beach
by Elaine Williams
Teravista Elementary
5th Grade, Ms. Ligon