Solar energy is one of the most used renewable energy sources. This clean resource is used for a lot more than just powering homes. In fact, there are hundreds of ingenious ways to use solar energy to our advantage. In this post, we discuss ten of them.
1. Power Homes & Appliances
The most common use of solar energy is to power homes and appliances. Solar panels convert the sun’s rays into electricity, which can power your lights, TV, refrigerator, and more.
Solar generators can also be used as a backup source of power to provide electricity during a power outage, off-grid homes, or even during camping trips!
2. Heating
Solar thermal collectors use the sun’s energy to heat water, which can then be used to heat homes or power hot water heaters.
In addition, passive solar heating can be used to warm homes using the sun’s natural energy. This can be done by designing a home with large, south-facing windows that allow sunlight to enter the home and by using thermal mass materials, such as concrete or brick, to store the heat and release it slowly overnight.
3. Illumination
Solar lights work by converting the sun’s energy into electrical energy. This electricity is then used to charge the solar light’s battery and power light bulbs.
Solar lighting can be used to illuminate outdoor areas like gardens, but can also be used indoors. They are a great way to save money on energy bills and reduce carbon footprint.
Companies like SolarAid are using this technology to provide lighting to millions of people without access to electricity in Africa.
4. Cooking Food
Solar cookers are able to heat up and cook food in areas that are cut off from the electrical grid. They are commonly used while hiking and camping. These solar ovens come in many different styles, and can even be used to bake bread!
5. Pump Water
Solar water pumps use solar energy to power a pump that moves water from one location to another. This is a great option for people who live in areas where grid-powered water pumps are not available.
These solar powered pumps are also used to pump water into irrigation systems and for livestock watering.
6. Ventilation
Ventilation is important to maintaining healthy indoor environments, and solar attic fans can help achieve this.
Solar ventilation fans use the sun’s energy to power fans or motors that pull hot air out of the attic. This reduces energy costs and can improve the comfort of the home.
These systems are especially a great option for homes in warm climates, where it is important to keep the interior cool. It is also a good choice for buildings that need to comply with green building standards.
7. Dry Clothes
Instead of using a clothes dryer, why not try using a solar clothes dryer?
Solar clothes drying systems use solar energy to power a fan or motor that helps to circulate air around the clothes. This air movement helps the clothes to dry faster, which can save energy money.
These systems are a great option for people who live in sunny climates or have access to a clothesline.
8. Home Security
Unlike traditional security systems, solar security systems do not require any wiring or electrical installation.
These security cameras and lights are powered by solar energy. This means they will work even when the power is out, and they will not run up the energy bill.
9. Heating swimming pools
Solar pool heaters are a great way to keep pools heated while saving money on energy bills. You also avoid the pollution produced by traditional pool heating systems.
These pool heaters use solar collector panels to capture the sun’s energy. The panels are mounted on the home’s roof and connected to the pool pump. When the sun shines, the panels convert the sunlight into heat energy. This heat is then used to warm the water in the pool.
10. Recharging EVs
Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming more and more popular, and solar energy is a great way to recharge them.
Solar charging systems use solar energy to power a charger that recharges EVs. This is a great option for people who live in areas where grid-powered chargers are not available.
