Definition of solar
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Definition of Solar Energy
Clean and Renewable Energy Source
Solar energy is a clean, renewable, and seemingly inexhaustible source of energy derived from the sun. It has been utilized since ancient times for light and heat, but technological advancements in the 20th century have enabled the transformation of solar energy into distributable forms such as electricity1.
Forms of Solar Energy
Solar energy can be harnessed in various forms, including solar heat, solar photovoltaic (PV), solar thermal electricity, and solar fuels. These forms offer a climate-friendly and abundant energy resource2. The conversion of sunlight into electricity can be achieved either directly using photovoltaic cells or indirectly using concentrated solar power (CSP)2.
Photovoltaic Technology
Photovoltaic (PV) technology involves the direct conversion of sunlight into electricity using solar cells. These cells are electronic devices that generate electric power by producing both a current and a voltage when exposed to light. The process requires materials that can absorb light and raise electrons to a higher energy state, which then move through an external circuit to generate power4. Most photovoltaic energy conversion uses semiconductor materials in the form of a p-n junction4.
Solarization in Agriculture
Solar energy is also applied in agriculture through a process known as soil solarization. This hydrothermal process disinfests soil of plant pests using passive solar heating. It combines physical, chemical, and biological mechanisms and is compatible with other pest management methods. Solarization is increasingly used as an alternative to synthetic chemical toxicants, especially as concerns about environmental quality grow3.
Solar Envelope in Architecture
The concept of the solar envelope, developed at the University of Southern California, regulates building development within boundaries derived from the sun's relative motion. This ensures that buildings do not overshadow their surroundings during critical periods of solar access, promoting sustainable growth and opening new aesthetic possibilities in architecture and urban design5.
Conclusion
Solar energy, in its various forms, represents a vital and sustainable energy resource. From photovoltaic technology to agricultural applications and architectural innovations, solar energy continues to offer significant benefits for a cleaner and more sustainable future.
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Most relevant research papers on this topic
General view of solar energy
Solar energy is a clean, renewable, and seemingly inexhaustible source of energy, with technological advances enabling its transformation into distributable energy, such as electricity.
Solar power generation by PV (photovoltaic) technology: A review
Solar power generation using photovoltaic (PV) technology has made significant progress since its inception, offering a clean, abundant, and in-exhaustible energy resource for mankind.
Literature Review
Highly CitedSoil solarization in various agricultural production systems.
Solarization is a natural, hydrothermal process that effectively disinfests soil of plant pests, providing an environmentally friendly alternative to synthetic chemical toxicants in agriculture.
Highly CitedTypes of Solar Cells and Application
Solar cells can be divided into two main types: photovoltaic cells and non-photovoltaic cells.
Highly CitedThe solar envelope: its meaning for energy and buildings
The solar envelope, a zoning tool based on the sun's motion, promotes sustainable growth and offers new aesthetic possibilities for architecture and urban design.
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Dual-axis tracking solar systems are more efficient and advantageous than single-axis and fixed systems, with their use depending on the physical features of the land.
Highly CitedSolar-driven integrated energy systems: State of the art and challenges
Solar-driven integrated energy systems offer a viable solution for practical applications like smart consumer electronics, electrical vehicles, and hydrogen fuel production, but face challenges due to intermittent sunlight and fluctuating output power.
Solar energy—A look into power generation, challenges, and a solar‐powered future
Solar energy has a bright future due to technological advancements and its environment-friendly nature, but challenges include unavailability all-year round, high capital costs, and material scarcity.
Highly CitedPhase Change Materials (PCM) for Solar Energy Usages and Storage: An Overview
Phase change materials (PCMs) offer higher density energy storage and variable temperature capabilities for solar energy applications, such as power generation, water heating, and solar cookers.
Highly CitedPathways for solar photovoltaics
Solar photovoltaics can meet global demand for electricity, but future research and development must focus on efficiency, materials use, and manufacturing complexity and cost to overcome material constraints and achieve terawatt scale deployment.
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