Uses of Solar Energy around the World
Solar energy has many uses in different parts of the world although
they are some common uses;
Solar energy in lighting homes;
This is very useful in areas which are remote. In most African
countries where the main power grinds are far and rural homes are
scattered, the use of solar is very efficient.
These solar kits can light up homes and power other small house hold
appliances at the same time.
Solar energy can also be used for cooking especially in rural homes
where most of the people depend on wood fuel which causes deforestation.
Solar energy for heating water;
The benefits of solar water heating are well known – energy from the
sun costs nothing, and depending on the model you select, you can
receive your hot water requirements for free. This will help in reducing
your power bill and helping the environment.
Solar energy for pumping;
Solar water pumping is the most practical solution for your water
supply requirements. Whether due to location and lack of grid power
access, using sustainable resources such as solar can give you a trouble
free water supply.
Apart from off-grid domestic homes, other remote buildings such as
schools, community halls, and clinics can all benefit from
electrification with Solar Energy. This can power TV, video, telephony
and a range of refrigeration equipment.
Solar energy for recreation applications;
Solar Power is frequently used in consumer product applications which
require small amounts of energy (like calculators). Another frequent use
is for Recreation Vehicles (RVs) and boating to recharge the battery.
Solar energy use in holiday cottages;
Photovoltaic Systems are frequently used in holiday homes which have
no access to the electricity grid. These solar systems are configured to
meet power needs less expensively than extending the grid to reach your
location. Remote holiday homes in sunny locations can obtain reliable
electricity.
Solar energy in industrial applications;
Solar Energy has been the power supply of choice for Industrial
applications required at remote locations. This means in these
applications that solar power is economic, without subsidy. Most systems
in individual uses require a few kilowatts of power.
The examples are powering repeater stations for microwave, TV and radio,
telemetry and radio telephones.
Countries with the largest use of solar energy and plants;
By 2011, Deming, New Mexico, USA will be the home of the world’s
largest solar power plant. This 300 Megawatt solar facility will be 15
times the size of the current largest solar plant on the planet. New
Solar Ventures and Solar Torx are the companies behind the project. The
solar energy plant will cover as many as 1,300 hectares and employ
between 300 and 400 people. The project’s planners estimate that the
plant will supply enough energy to power 240,000 homes.
Though currently, the solar power plant in Jumilla, Murcia, Spain is one
of the two largest solar energy plants in the world. It produces 20
megawatts with 120,000 PV panels. The panels are spread over an area of
100 hectares and provide enough electricity for the equivalent of about
20,000 houses.
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