Direct solar power

Is direct solar energy a viable energy source?

Although it is true that direct solar energy provides only a very small fraction of global energy supply today, it has the largest technical potential of all energy sources. In concert with technical improvements and resulting cost reductions, it could see dramatically expanded use in the decades to come.

Is direct solar energy the future of energy?

Although it is true that direct solar energy provides only a very small fraction of global energy supply today, it has the largest technical potential of all energy sources. In concert with technical improvements and resulting cost reductions, it could see dramatically expanded use in the decades to come.

How are direct solar energy technologies part of the broader energy framework?

This section discusses how direct solar energy technologies are part of the broader energy framework, focusing specifi cally on the following: low-capacity energy demand; district heating and other thermal loads; PV generation characteristics and the smoothing effect; and CSP gen-eration characteristics and grid stabilization.

How is solar energy converted into electricity?

In the fi rst, solar energy is converted directly into electricity in a device called a photovoltaic (PV) cell. In the second, solar thermal energy is used in a concentrating solar power (CSP) plant to produce high-temperature heat, which is then converted to electricity via a heat engine and generator. Both approaches are currently in use.

Can solar energy be integrated into a broader energy system?

Integration of solar energy into broader energy systems involves both challenges and opportunities.

Can photovoltaic cells convert solar energy to electricity?

Published online by Cambridge University Press: 05 June 2012 Focus During the last decade the direct conversion of solar energy to electricity by photovoltaic cells has emerged from a pilot technology to one that produced 11 GW p of electricity generating capacity in 2009.