Understanding Solar Energy

The Sun's Energy is more than the output of annual output of 1,000 power stations is available, in the UK from a source right above our heads

In the past we have grossly underestimated the degree of energy that the sun's radiation can generate.  The UK's climate allows us to  receive a vast amount of solar energy. OPne of the myths of solar energy is "we do not have enough sunshine in Britain for solar panels to be an effective means of generating renewable energy, however in an average year we receive over 60% of the solar energy received on the equator.

This amount of power, or renewable energy, can be compared to the output of 1,000 power stations in a single year. Is solar power only for the summer then? when the sun is out and the sub's radiation can be harvested? Not true! the UK has a large number of clear spring, autumn and winter days, where the Sun's radiation can be used, meaning that solar technologies can contribute to energy consumption 365 days a year, not just in the summer months.

The UK map image shows the total average solar irradiation falling on a 1m² surface on the horizontal, measured in kilo-watt hours (kwh). This shows that the sun's rays falling on the ground range from > 1200 kwh m² in the far SW of the UK, to < 900 kwh m2 in Scotland.

If you tilt a surface to an angle, the amount of solar radiation falling on it will be greater than if the radiation was being received by a flat surface. More by chance than luck, the average tilt of a house roof is about the optimum for receiving and processing solar energy.

By using the Sun's energy, UK households can reduce their consumption of conventional fuels. This will further reduce our emission of harmful greenhouse gases. A further benefit is gaining enhanced fuel security and cost effective savings.

Nowdays there are a range of products to enable the UK to use the Sun's energy effectively and efficiently.

Now that we have establised that solar power is not only accessable but in sufficient quantity in the UK, what is the best way to use the sun's energy ...

More on Understanding Solar Energy

1. How can we use the sun?
2. Solar Heating
3. Types of collectors
4. Efficiency & cost
5. Best practice guidlines
6. Photovoltaics