Although it may seem easy to answer, the question to how does solar power derive its energy is better answered by considering the process of how a solar power system work. From there, the answer to the question can be answered and you will know that the process requires some form of conversion of the energy coming from the sun to another form of energy that you need to use your household appliances.
Solar energy conversion can be done directly and indirectly. These are called solar thermal and photovoltaic approaches.
Solar thermal approach uses the direct energy from the sun to produce heat. The solar panels capture and collect the heat of the sun and transfer this heat for the purpose of providing heat to indoor structures or building. The heat is transferred to water and maintained into tubing for the water to circulate. The tubing serves as the solar thermal collector. The heating is done directly and the heated water is used for another purpose.
The photovoltaic method converts the power of the sun to electricity. Solar cells are used to absorb sunlight. The sunlight is captured in solar panels and the solar energy creates an effect in the electrons of the solar cell, thereby producing electricity. The electricity produced is direct current and it is later on converted to alternating current that drives the power to your appliances.
During the process, there is an amount of energy that will be retained and can be stored for future use or to supply the electricity needed by other users. With this, in effect, the solar power system source becomes a contributor of the utility for other consumers.
Solar power system can be easily implemented in homes. The necessary materials and expertise can be provided by a solar power company. The only requirement for the installation is enough room space for the solar cells and panels to be installed to capture maximum amount of sunlight which will be converted to electricity in the process. The wiring and connections are complex and it requires professionals who are trained for the purpose to do the work. Ordinary electricians may not be able to do the work and entrusting this task to them may cause problems instead of solutions.
The process of deriving electricity from the sunlight allows you to save on electricity expenses in the long run. The technology has been available before. If you remember the time when there was popularity of solar watches and solar calculators, the same technology was adopted. The scope and use has just become major and with the success of this development, you can now enjoy the great benefits of using solar power for your household appliances. This is not only cost-saving on your part. It is also a contribution that you can take in taking care of the environment.
The process of deriving energy from solar power is straightforward. It has many advantages. You should start enjoying the benefits of using solar power for a cleaner, healthier environment and a more efficient way of using your resources.