The Most Amazing and Innovative Uses of Solar Energy Around the World

Introduction

It is one of the cleanest and most plentiful mediums of energy. Solar energy is not only used in houses but also for businesses. This article will cover all areas of solar energy and to what extent it is used worldwide.

It is a very eco-friendly and affordable form of energy for people. It comes with many creative and innovative purposes, such as it is very helpful in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, being a great source of electricity for remote communities, and even reducing transportation fuel costs. Over time, it is evolving and getting transformed according to our needs. We will explore how solar energy operates in many regions and sectors.

Floating solar farms

Have you ever heard of floating solar farms? If not, I will tell you what it is, its benefits. You might have seen solar plates on roofs or open ground but have you seen solar plates floating on the water’s surface? Yes, floating solar farms are a system that floats over a water body; it can be a lake, ocean, or any other water body. Like a solar panel, it is well connected to the water. After getting an understanding of floating solar farms, we will now move forward to their advantages.

i. Advantages Of Floating Solar Farms

Preservation of land and water reserves: 

Floating solar farms use extra water unsuitable for human life or cleaning purposes etc. Such water bodies do not have clean water that can be used for other purposes, so these floating farms use unused water around mining areas or coastal waters.

Efficiency: 

Because of their cooling effect, the floating solar farm’s performance and lifespan increase.

Reduce gas emissions and air pollution: 

These solar farms reduce greenhouse gas emissions, even reducing air pollution that fossil fuel power plants create.

ii. Examples of floating solar farms around the world

• The world’s largest floating solar array in China is called The Sungrow Huinan Solar Farm with 40 MW capacity. It gives power to around 15,000 houses.
• The world’s first sea-floating solar is found in the Maldives. It supplies cheap solar power to the coastal tropics. It is called The Swimsol SolarSea.
• The world’s first high-altitude floating solar is found in Switzerland. It produces 50% more power than low-altitude plants and is named The Romande Energie Solar Farm.

Solar-powered communities

In developing countries, solar power is a durable, safe, and clean source of energy that helps off-grid communities. It is a great source of access to education, health, and income opportunities. It also reduces dependence on fossil fuels, which create air pollution and are quite expensive.

i. Examples of solar-powered communities around the world

• In India, a village called Dharnai is fully dependent on solar energy. Around 2400 people and 450 households have access to this solar energy 24/7.
•  In the Northwest Territories, Colville Lake, basically in Canada, has planted a hybrid solar-diesel system by replacing diesel generators. This community has around 400-kilowatt battery storage systems that fulfill 70% of the electricity needs.
• World’s first country, Tokelau, which is situated in the Pacific Ocean, completely depends on solar energy. With the help of the New Zealand government, it was completed in 2012.

Solar-powered transportation

Solar-powered transportation helps in reducing greenhouse gasses that are emitted by several transportation. It helps vehicles to be fully dependent on sunlight, and it is also helpful in enhancing the performance of electric vehicles.

i. Examples of solar-powered transportation Worldwide Projects

• The world’s first solar car in the Netherlands is the lightyear one car. Its roof is embedded with solar panels and it can drive up to 70km daily without charging.
• World’s first solar train is called the Byron Bay. Its rooftop is filled with solar panels and has a capacity of up to 100 passengers per trip.
• In Morocco, The Noor Ouarzazate is the world’s largest solar plant. It can power one million homes. Moroccan National Railways also derives its energy from this solar panel, and it is one of the high-speed trains.

Solar-powered innovations

Solar power energy is not limited; it helps in several purposes, such as cooling, cooking, lighting, and much more. Solar panel devices are not only affordable, simple but eco-friendly as well.

i. Examples of solar-powered innovations that showcase the potential of solar energy

• Solar ovens: as the name implies, solar ovens help cook food without electricity. Various dishes can be cooked in this oven, and its temperature rises to 200°C. These ovens are perfect for picnics and camping purposes.
• Solar Paint: in solar Paint, small particles of synthetic molybdenum-sulfide and titanium dioxide play the role of catalysts. When it is reached by light, it divides water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen. This Paint also can produce electricity from sunlight.
• Solar tents can provide lighting, cooling, heating, and charging devices. These tents are ideal if you are planning for hiking or camping. They are comfortable and safe.

FAQs

Final Analysis

Solar energy is a great source of renewable energy, which is clean and cheap. Moreover, it has helped reduce fossil fuel dependence and the emission of greenhouse gasses. Now, it plays a major part in entertainment, business transportation, and home electricity. Solar energy is used in many forms, such as floating solar farms and solar-powered backpacks. Still, much research is being conducted to make it more refined and accessible.