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The Sun provides approximately 1.4 kilowatts (kW) of energy adding all the light striking one square meter perpendicular to a line to the Sun above the Earth's atmosphere. If solar panels are 25% efficient in verting this optical energy to electrical energy, and if they are oriented to make maximum use of incident sunlight, how much panel area is needed to develop 10% of the regional power production which is 3.5 watts (GW) while the Sun shines? (3.5 GW is 3,500 MW. Currently LG&E has a 10 MW solar farm covering 50 acres.)

The Sun provides approximately 1.4 kilowatts (kW) of energy adding all the light striking one square meter perpendicular to a line to the Sun above the Earth's atmosphere. If solar panels are 25% efficient in verting this optical energy to electrical energy, and if they are oriented to make maximum use of incident sunlight, how much panel area is needed to develop 10% of the regional power production which is 3.5 watts (GW) while the Sun shines? (3.5 GW is 3,500 MW. Currently LG&E has a 10 MW solar farm covering 50 acres.)

Introductory Circuit Analysis (13th Edition)
Introductory Circuit Analysis (13th Edition)
13th Edition
ISBN:9780133923605
Author:Robert L. Boylestad
Publisher:Robert L. Boylestad
Chapter1: Introduction
Section: Chapter Questions
Problem 1P: Visit your local library (at school or home) and describe the extent to which it provides literature...
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### Educational Resource on Solar Power 1. **Solar Energy Conversion**: The sun provides approximately 1.4 kilowatts (kW) of energy per square meter directly under its rays above the Earth's atmosphere. Solar panels, if aligned optimally, can convert 25% of this energy into electrical energy. Determining the necessary panel area to produce 10% of regional power (3.5 gigawatts or GW) involves calculating based on these efficiencies. For example, LG&E's solar farm spans 50 acres to contribute 10 MW. 2. **Solar Panels and Energy Efficiency**: A standard single solar panel with crystalline silicon measures 1x2 meters and provides 340 watts at 48 volts. With an efficiency rating of 17%, not all sunlight reaching the atmosphere equates to surface energy, and certain wavelengths aren't usable by the silicon. Calculating the number of panels required to supply 15 kW (peak home needs) involves assessing the total panel area and coverage on roofs. 3. **Energy Storage Needs**: On sunny days, energy needs might necessitate three times the number of panels and effective storage solutions for consistent use. Panels storing energy for eight hours to supply power over 24 hours involve energy retention strategies. Options include pumped water storage to higher altitudes or using Tesla "Powerwall" batteries, the latter storing 13.5 kWh and providing 7 kW AC. 4. **Assessment of Solar Power Viability**: Considering solar power as a primary home and electric car energy source involves examining storage and efficiency tools, especially as companies like Tesla develop alternatives to conventional gasoline. Evaluate energy sources and potential hydrogen solutions in comparison. **Exam Component**: This content will account for 20% of your exam. Engage in online discussions to explore these concepts further, using personal insights and acknowledged resources for enriched responses.
Transcribed Image Text:### Educational Resource on Solar Power 1. **Solar Energy Conversion**: The sun provides approximately 1.4 kilowatts (kW) of energy per square meter directly under its rays above the Earth's atmosphere. Solar panels, if aligned optimally, can convert 25% of this energy into electrical energy. Determining the necessary panel area to produce 10% of regional power (3.5 gigawatts or GW) involves calculating based on these efficiencies. For example, LG&E's solar farm spans 50 acres to contribute 10 MW. 2. **Solar Panels and Energy Efficiency**: A standard single solar panel with crystalline silicon measures 1x2 meters and provides 340 watts at 48 volts. With an efficiency rating of 17%, not all sunlight reaching the atmosphere equates to surface energy, and certain wavelengths aren't usable by the silicon. Calculating the number of panels required to supply 15 kW (peak home needs) involves assessing the total panel area and coverage on roofs. 3. **Energy Storage Needs**: On sunny days, energy needs might necessitate three times the number of panels and effective storage solutions for consistent use. Panels storing energy for eight hours to supply power over 24 hours involve energy retention strategies. Options include pumped water storage to higher altitudes or using Tesla "Powerwall" batteries, the latter storing 13.5 kWh and providing 7 kW AC. 4. **Assessment of Solar Power Viability**: Considering solar power as a primary home and electric car energy source involves examining storage and efficiency tools, especially as companies like Tesla develop alternatives to conventional gasoline. Evaluate energy sources and potential hydrogen solutions in comparison. **Exam Component**: This content will account for 20% of your exam. Engage in online discussions to explore these concepts further, using personal insights and acknowledged resources for enriched responses.
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