Solar energy is that produced by light -photovoltaic energy- or heat from the sun -solar thermal- for the generation of electricity or the production of heat . Inexhaustible and renewable, since it comes from the sun, it is obtained through panels and mirrors .
Photovoltaic solar cells convert sunlight directly into electricity by the so-called photoelectric effect, by which certain materials are capable of absorbing photons (light particles) and releasing electrons, generating an electric current. On the other hand, solar thermal collectors use panels or mirrors to absorb and concentrate solar heat, transfer it to a fluid and conduct it through pipes for use in buildings and facilities or also for the production of electricity (solar thermoelectric).
1) AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
Solar energy does not emit greenhouse gases, so it does not contribute to global warming . In fact, it is shown as one of the most efficient renewable technologies in the fight against climate change .
2) ELECTRODIALYSIS
The desalination process consists of the phenomenon by which an electric current is passed through an ionic solution. Positive ions (cations) will migrate towards the negative electrode (cathode), while negative ions (anions) will migrate towards the positive electrode (anode). Two semi-impermeable membranes are placed between both electrodes that selectively allow only the passage of Na+ or Cl-, the water contained in the center of the electrolytic cell is progressively desalinated , obtaining fresh water.
3) IT IS INEXHAUSTIBLE AND RENEWS ITSELF
Unlike traditional energy sources such as coal, gas, oil or nuclear energy, whose reserves are finite, the sun’s energy is available throughout the world and adapts to natural cycles (that’s why we call them renewable ). For this reason, they are an essential element of a sustainable energy system that allows present development without putting future generations at risk.
4) GENERATES WEALTH AND LOCAL EMPLOYMENT
In addition, solar energy is an indigenous energy , available in practically the entire planet, which contributes to reducing energy imports and creating wealth and employment locally. For all these reasons, the production of electricity through solar energy and its efficient use contribute to sustainable development .
5) INCREASINGLY COMPETITIVE
Today renewables , specifically wind and photovoltaic , are cheaper than conventional energies in much of the world. The main renewable technologies are drastically reducing their costs, so that they are already fully competitive with conventional ones in a growing number of locations. Economies of scale and innovation are already making renewable energies the most sustainable solution, not only environmentally but also economically, to move the world.
6) NON-POLLUTING
Of all these advantages, it is important to highlight that solar energy does not emit toxic substances or air pollutants , which can be very harmful to the environment and to humans. Toxic substances can acidify terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems and corrode buildings. Air pollutants can trigger heart disease, cancer, and respiratory conditions like asthma. Solar energy does not generate waste or water pollution , a very important factor considering the scarcity of water.