Mankind has been reaping the benefits of solar energy since the very beginning. Our sun it the driving motor of most other renewable sources of energy, like wind energy, hydro power, biomass and ocean energy. All of these are indirect forms of solar energy. There are some salient features of solar energy which makes it very attractive; the wide-spread distribution, environmental friendliness and the fact that it is virtually inexhaustible are such features.

However mankind has found a way to directly harness the solar energy by using photovoltaic cells or solar cells. Photovoltaic cells are normally made up of silicon and a few other elements and metals for a more efficient combination. The solar cells convert the incident solar energy into electrical energy so it is advisable to assemble them on the roofs of homes in order to obtain the maximum incidence of solar energy and thus more electrical output. The electrical energy produced has to be stored in special storage batteries that can then be used for all manner of purposes. The solar energy stored in these batteries can be used for heat or cooling devices, refrigeration, lighting and pretty much anything that needs electricity to work. So it is plain to see why solar energy can replace the traditional sources of energy in every other field of work and not just the household.

Of course there are other areas where solar energy plays an important role, like farming and agriculture. India is the country that has some of the largest solar energy programs in the world. There is even a dedicated ministry in the Indian government that has to do with renewable energy. Although these solar energy programs are still in the beginning phases they have the potential of becoming roaring successes as they will save a lot of money for the consumers.

The beauty and attraction of solar energy stems from the fact that it is pollution free, easily and freely available in nature and the source will only dry up in about five billion years. Solar energy is indeed a green energy since it can reduce global warming by not cutting down trees and forests for wood. It is easy to use, there is virtually no noise and no toxic fumes or waste involved in solar energy usage. It is a great type of energy to switch to in countries where there is sunshine throughout the year.

Now industry is another sector where there is a very high demand and consumption of energy. Power plants cause pollution and a lot of industrial waste. These types of installations also waste oil and fuel, since oil would be more efficiently used in the pharmaceutical sector for drugs. In order to harvest the power of raging rivers dams must be built across them, and although this will give rise to employment, the nearby villages or towns have to be evacuated and their agricultural lands lost forever. Here is where the use of solar energy will be ideal as there will not be any disturbance to nature as well or to the people. There will be power in plenty and the people will be able to carry on with their lives without being disturbed.

The color green is usually associated with growth and abundance, well then solar energy is definitely green energy.

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