Get Your Solar Energy Basics

There is a huge amount of information out there on solar energy. Our aim is to explain in simple terms the main issues around solar power. We intend to de-mystify the solar facts and get you up to speed with the latest and greatest in renewable energy.

Solar power comes from the sun. The same energy that grows trees, warms the earth and lights the moon can be turned into electricity. This process is accomplished using soar panels.

The advantage of sun energy is that it is a renewable resource. This means that there is no danger of running out of solar power. Every morning, the sun rises, and the earth receives amazing amounts of untapped energy.

Solar Energy, Facts, Figures and Stories


The challenge is capturing this energy. Using Photovoltaic solar panels, the sunlight that strikes the panels is converted into electricity. The percentage of energy that is turned into electricity for your home is called the 'efficiency' of the solar panel. For instance, a solar panel with a 15% efficiency will turn 15% of the sun energy it receives into electricity.

Solar energy is a rapidly growing market. Last year it experienced a 30% growth. Since the 60's approximately 100,000 solar panels have been installed in the USA.

Already other mainstream sources of energy like oil have become scarce, causing energy prices to rise. This makes solar energy a very attractive energy source.