Why can t we use solar energy to generate electricity

Why do we not use solar energy?

This is primarily because the technology has taken time to develop in order to produce large amounts of clean energy, and most of our engines and systems were developed to run off of fossil fuels. Why don’t we make better use of solar energy? Solar power may be healthier for the planet, but that doesn’t mean it is entirely reliable.

Should you use solar power to generate electricity at home?

Using solar power to generate electricity at home is a very appealing option for a number of reasons: not only would you be reducing your overall environmental footprint and greenhouse gas emissions, but you would be reducing your bills and could even generate some income by selling back excess energy into the grid.

How do solar panels turn sunlight into electricity?

There are several ways to turn sunlight into usable energy, but almost all solar energy today comes from “solar photovoltaics (PV).” Solar PV relies on a natural property of “semiconductor” materials like silicon, which can absorb the energy from sunlight and turn it into electric current.

How does solar power work?

The sun—that power plant in the sky—bathes Earth in ample energy to fulfill all the world's power needs many times over. It doesn't give off carbon dioxide emissions. It won't run out. And it's free. So how on Earth can people turn this bounty of sunbeams into useful electricity?

Is solar power a good idea?

Solar power may be healthier for the planet, but that doesn’t mean it is entirely reliable. While that can sound crazy—the sun shines in some form every day, right?—it’s because the solar panels we have can only generate electricity when it’s a clear sunny day.

Is solar power the cheapest way to generate electricity?

If you are looking into options for making your house more eco-friendly and saving some money, solar power is probably one of the most attractive renewable energy options. In fact, solar power is becoming the cheapest way to generate electricity, according to Bloomberg New Energy Finance analysts.