PV Gap

Fernando Said:

How many different things do we use solar power in?

We Answered:

Solar thermal energy using glycol to heat water.
Integrating solar photovoltaic energy into your home or business power.

Large independent photovoltaic systems.
photovoltaic cells for producing electricity (very expensive to

set up but maintenance free)

solar water heaters very popular in several countries to produce hot water

solar cookers for cooking food

in farming to run isolated pumps for irigation,and normal power use of residences of isolated farmers

solar cells on the street lamposts

Prototype cars

houses (CA. has enacted a big solar power push)

telephones

computers

calculators

* Small electronic devices like calculators.
* Many highway signs and other mechanical devices which are left outdoors in sunny areas are now equipped with solar panels--look as you're driving along a highway.
* Homes & buildings. Even without solar panels, most buildings use solar energy for some heat. Whenever we open the shades on a cold and sunny day, we are using solar energy to heat the room.
* Plants. Almost all plant life on earth uses solar power, and thus, almost all life on earth is fueled, indirectly, through solar power.
* Power generation...both for private homes, commercial bulidings, and actual power plants. There are a few solar power generation plants, although they're not common. Even some BP gas stations are now equipped with photovoltaic cells on the roof covering the gas pumps!