Solar Power Systems - Using the Basic Principle of Concentrating Sunlight

By Orlando Racelis

Did you ever wonder how electricity is produced using sunlight? We know that in the olden times, sunlight is already used to heat water and even vegetables and eggs. Let us go back to the olden times and let us trace back how sunlight is converted into electricity. In the beginning, Scientists were able to develop heating systems by using mirrors pointing towards the sun and concentrating sunlight to one area and use the heat to heat up the liquid that flows along the pipes. This is called Parabolic-Trough System. The liquid that is flowing in the pipe is oil. It was discovered that oil could be heated to a temperature enough to boil water. The steam that water emitted is feed into a turbine generator which in turn produces electricity. Then scientist discovered that molten salt is a very good heat receiver and just like oil, it generates enough heat to turn a generator. Another good thing about molten salt is that it can store the heat for a long time, and so it can be released later especially during the night. Solar Cell or the photo-voltaic cell discovery is the most important discovery in the generation of electricity through sunlight. Photovoltaic cells are self generating and consist of a very thing film made of silver. This film is placed on a semiconductor layer that can be found on an iron substrate. Concentration of solar power systems are beneficial to the businesses that use them because they won't have so much time down when the power fails. Machinery is their only major concern and as long as their machines are taken care of there should be no problems. Industrial



type of solar power can attract and trap a lot of heat from the sun during the day, especially using efficient solar power panels. Scientists are continuously studying this theory as businesses use it to power their generators. Steam power was what was used from the beginning with solar power and is still what most systems depend on to service their production needs. As new materials are being discovered and the efficiency of solar power panels improved, we can expect for a cheaper power fuel and a cleaner environment to live in. Orlando Racelis is interested in Alternative Renewable Energy Sources. To know more about fuel energy sources, visit the site below: http://orlando-racelis-online.com/BioDiesel.htm http://orlando-racelis-online.com Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Orlando_Racelis
Orlando Racelis, an Electrical Engineer started writing article last April of 2008. His main interests are, homebased business, travel tips, renewable alternative fuel sources, and healthy tips. He is running an online business on a part time basis. Currently working as an Internet Sales consultant. Plans to concentrate on writing articles and focus on Internet home business when he retires from his current job.

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