Introduction to Solar Energy

Solar energy is obtained from sunlight conversion. Solar panels use photovoltaic cells to convert sunlight into electricity, demonstrating the photoelectric effect discovered by physicist Heinrich Hertz in 1887.

Unlike fossil fuels, solar power doesn't emit greenhouse gases during electricity generation. Its low carbon footprint is a key to fighting climate change. Plus, sunlight is abundant and inexhaustible.

Solar panel costs have fallen by 99% since 1977, making it increasingly affordable. Efficiency has soared too, with some cells achieving over 22% efficiency, a figure that continues to climb.

Solar energy's biggest challenge is intermittency. Innovative solutions, like lithium-ion batteries and pumped hydro storage, allow excess energy to be stored for use during non-sunny periods.

As of 2023, solar energy accounts for a significant portion of global renewable energy capacity. Countries like China, the USA, and Germany lead in solar installation, promoting a cleaner energy future.

NASA's Juno spacecraft, powered solely by solar energy, travels 484 million miles from the Sun, proving solar power's reach extends even to deep space.