APS STAR Center
Learn About Solar
The Sun: Our Fuel Cell in the Sky
Monday, September 4th, 2006
Many of the sources of energy we use are originally from the Sun. Solar power, wind power, fossil fuels,and biomass/biodiesel all originally derive their energy from our star.
What is Solar Energy?
Monday, August 28th, 2006
When people talk about “solar energy,” there are two different technologies to which they may be referring: solar thermal or photovoltaics.
What is meant by "Renewable Energy?
Monday, August 21st, 2006
A big buzz word these days is "Renewable Energy." But what exactly does "renewable" mean in this context, and how is it different from other forms of energy? Is there such a thing as non-renewable energy?
Factors that Influence Solar Panel Efficiency
Monday, August 14th, 2006
For the most part, photovoltaic power generation is a passive process. One need simply place a panel in the sun and let it do its work. However, there are several factors that contribute to how well the panels will perform.
The key concept to understanding solar panel energy output is incident energy, or the amount of energy that strikes a given surface area of solar paneling. Incident energy is directly affected by numerous factors, not all of which are easy to measure and control. Here are some of the most common factors, which are also some of the easiest with which to deal:
What Electricity Means to Developing Nations
Monday, August 7th, 2006
While most anyone can recognize the importance of electricity in everyday life, electricity is a particular necessity in developing nations; reliable energy is the lifeblood that lets nations develop fully.
Why the Third World Loves Diesel
Monday, July 31st, 2006
We here at Viasol Energy have been asked from time to time, "Why are so many Third World nations using diesel generators? Don't they know it's inefficient?" There are several answers to these questions, and they are all related:
Alternative and Conventional Energy: A Matter of Efficiency
Monday, July 26th, 2006
Renewable energy gets a lot of attention because it is supposed to be better for the environment. But for renewables to be better for the environment than conventional technology, renewables must be more cost-effective than other alternatives. This is because costs are not arbitrary numbers; they reflect the scarcity of resources needed to construct and operate a power plant and thus are a measure of total efficiency.