Getting Started with Solar

Solar Energy Defined

While it may be a hot topic these days, many people don't truly understand the mechanics and significance of solar energy. Let us highlight what exactly solar energy is and how it can improve your business.

Solar Energy

The definition of solar energy is that it is the radiant light and heat from the Sun that has been harnessed by humans to create energy. 

The definition of solar power is electrical generation by means of heat engines or photovoltaics. Uses for solar power include but are not limited to:  space heating and cooling, water distillation, daylighting, hot water, thermal energy for cooking, and more.

Two of the most widely-used technologies are photovoltaic panels and solar thermal collectors to convert sunlight into useful outputs. Both are active techniques, meaning they actively collect then convert sunlight. They are also the most effective collectors of solar power, and both have useful attributes for any professional considering renewable energy.

Solar Photovoltaic (PV)
Solar PV allows sunlight to be converted directly into electricity by using solar cells for energy. Due to the immense demand for renewable sources, the array and supply of photovoltaic technology has increased dramatically, doubling every two years.
 
Solar Thermal Energy (STE)
STE is technology for harnessing solar energy from thermal energy. This is heat collected by either low, medium, or high collectors. These varying degrees cater to different types of energy, such as heating a pool to electric power production. It differs from Solar PV as it does not directly convert to electricity.
 
 
 
 
4 Comments

I am just wondering if you

  • Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Thu, 03/25/2010 - 08:50.
    I am just wondering if you provide training in south florida, i have an associate degree in electronics technology, with 13 years of experiance, i would like to learn all about solar, and get a job in this field, Thanks in advance

We would be happy to assist

  • Submitted by Everblue on Thu, 03/25/2010 - 08:59.
    We would be happy to assist you with training for your career goals. For starting out with Solar, I recommend our Basics of Solar and our Business of Solar webinars. I would also encourage you to look at our Energy Auditor training which has tremendous job potential with the pending Federal Stimulus program. The Everblue Team

Solar Certification

  • Submitted by Edito A. Rico (not verified) on Sun, 06/20/2010 - 14:35.
    What are the requirements to get a certification in this field?

    Thanks,
    Ed

Solar Training & Certifications

  • Submitted by Everblue on Sun, 06/20/2010 - 15:31.
    Ed,

    Hello. The requirements for certification depend on how broadly you define the field. For Solar itself, the most widely recognized individual solar certification body is NABCEP. The entry level NABCEP certification requires completion of an approved 40 hour training course (see the Everblue Solar Bootcamp at Rutger's University). Upon completion of an approved training you are eligible to taken NABCEP's Entry Level Solar Exam.

    Aside from Solar Certifications, we also recommend that you consider the BPI Building Analyst and RESNET HERS Rater Certifications. These are the national Energy Auditor Certifications. An Energy Audit should be completed prior to any Solar Installation.

    Everblue

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