What is Solar Energy?

Technology

How does Solar Energy Work?

There are currently two prevalent methods of generating electricity from solar energy: directly using photovoltaic (“PV”) technology or indirectly through concentrating solar power (“CSP”) technology. PV technology uses arrays of semiconductors that convert the photons from sunlight directly into electricity. CSP technology uses reflectors to concentrate solar energy into heat which is used to power turbines or engines which in turn drive electrical generators.

Why is Solar Energy the right solution for our needs?

Solar energy is inherently clean and scalable. PV systems generate electricity directly without moving parts. Arrays of solar cells range from square inches to acres depending on the power needed for the task at hand. Roof panel PV systems can supply primary electricity for homes and businesses. CSP dish systems scale from kilowatts to megawatts. CSP solar trough systems, like the 400 acre, 64 megawatt Nevada Solar One facility, provide utility-grade electrical power to the grid.

Why is Nevada uniquely positioned to provide Solar Energy in the future?

Nevada has a very high percentage of sunny days per year making it highly desirable for solar energy production. For example, Las Vegas averages 85% and Reno averages 79%. Nevada cities rank higher than Miami (70%) or Los Angeles (73%) in average sunshine, and far higher than New York (58%) or Seattle (47%). More sunshine equals more energy output. Investments in Nevada solar energy will yield better results than would other locations throughout the Nation. Because of this, in 2007, the third largest solar energy production facility in the world went online in Nevada.

What are the challenges to providing Solar Energy in the future?

Solar power is daylight power. Storage systems and secondary energy sources are required to bridge between peak generation hours and nighttime energy needs. The cost of electricity produced via solar energy, particularly PV, is still high relative to fossil fuels. Producing PV panels itself consumes fossil fuel energy and toxins are still used in the manufacturing process. Even so, the negative environmental impact is less than one tenth that of the fossil fuel energy they replace. As for CSP, large tracts of land are needed for utility-grade facilities. Lastly, as with all power sources, a cost-effective means of connecting to the electrical grid and transmitting the generated power is needed.