PV Gap

Ramon Said:

How many solar panels would it take to power a school?

We Answered:

That's about 150 houses, or a 600 - 800 kW array.

Coincidentally, our school put up an array of this size. The array contains a little more than 2800 panels, and is one of 5 arrays at local high schools in our district. They supply about 50% of the electrical power that the school consumes. It's a high school with an enrollment of 2000 or so. The location is northern california - a less sunny area would need more panels, and more sunny area would need less.

http://www.oshpd.com/projects/michael-r-…

Felix Said:

Why is solar power interesting I really need an answer because I am interested in it and I need it for school?

We Answered:

Solar power is very interesting because it is a very viable eco-friendly energy source. We know that very efficient solar conversion can take place because of the photosynthesis performed by plants, and all we need is the money and interest in research to make it happen. One plan is to place giant solar collectors in orbit, which then convert solar energy into microwave energy which then can be beamed down into a conversion station on the Earth's surface. Other applications have already been developed, from power plants using solar focusing to superheat water to turn turbines to giant solar collectors out in the desert which convert sunlight into storable energy. Even the international space station uses solar energy, and is dependant on it. Because the sun will be around for millions of years, it is our best bet for a long term, always present source of energy! Plants have been using it for a long time, and so should we. This is what makes solar power interesting.

Good luck with your project!