Guide: The basics of solar energy
Solar energy is one of the cleanest and most sustainable energy sources available to us. In this guide, you will learn everything you need to know about the basics of solar energy: from how it works to the technical components and practical applications in the home. Whether you want to take your first steps into the use of solar energy or simply want to find out more, this guide offers you a comprehensive overview.
What is solar energy
Solar energy is the conversion of sunlight into usable energy. This form of energy is categorised as renewable energy, as the sun is a virtually inexhaustible source of energy. There are two main methods of utilising solar energy:
Photovoltaics (PV): Conversion of sunlight into electricity.
Solar thermal energy: Utilisation of solar heat for water or space heating.
Why solar energy
?Advantages of solar energy
Environmentally friendly: Solar energy is emission-free and significantly reduces CO₂ emissions.
Sustainable: The sun provides energy without consuming resources.
Cost savings: Once installed, solar systems significantly reduce electricity costs.
Independence: Generating your own electricity makes you less dependent on energy suppliers and price fluctuations.
Future-proof: As technology advances, solar systems are becoming increasingly efficient and accessible.
Challenges of solar energy
High initial costs: Installation requires an initial investment, but this is amortised
Weather dependency: Power generation fluctuates depending on solar radiation and weather conditions
Space requirement: Depending on the electricity requirement, a larger area is needed for the installation.
How does solar energy work?
1. photovoltaics: converting light into electricity
Photovoltaics is based on the use of solar cells, which are made of semiconductor materials such as silicon. When sunlight hits the solar cells, it triggers the movement of electrons, which generates direct current (DC). This direct current is converted by an inverter into alternating current (AC), which can be used for household appliances.<
Components of photovoltaics:
Solar modules: Capture sunlight and generate direct current.
Inverter: Converts direct current into alternating current.
Battery storage: Stores surplus energy for later use.
Mounting system: Secures the modules on the roof or on the ground.
2. solar thermal energy: Utilisation of solar heat
Solar thermal energy utilises the heat of the sun to heat water or heat buildings. One common application is water heating
.Components of solar thermal energy:
Solar collectors: Capture the sun's heat
Storage tank: Stores the heated water.
Pump system: Distributes the hot water throughout the household.
Possible uses of solar energy
1. self-consumption in the household
Electricity for household appliances such as fridges, washing machines and lighting
.Water heating through solar thermal energy
.Integration into smart home systems to optimise energy consumption.
2. feed into the grid
Excess electricity can be fed into the public grid. You receive a feed-in tariff for this, which increases the economic benefit of your system.
3. combination with storage systems
With modern battery storage systems, you can also use solar power at times when the sun is not shining. This increases your independence from the power grid.
Important factors for the use of solar energy
1. location and solar radiation
Geographical location: Regions with high solar radiation offer higher yields
Orientation: The optimum orientation of solar modules is south-facing with a tilt angle of 30-45 degrees.
Shade-free: Avoid obstacles such as trees or buildings that could shade the modules.
2. system size
The size of your solar system depends on your electricity requirements and the available space. A typical system for a single-family home has an output of 3 to 10 kWp (kilowatt peak).
3. quality of the components
High-quality solar modules and inverters guarantee greater efficiency and a longer service life for your system.
Costs and funding opportunities
1. acquisition costs
Solar system (PV): Between €5,000 and €15,000 for an average single-family home
.Solar thermal: Around 3,000 to 8,000 euros for hot water and heating systems
2. subsidy programmes
Many countries offer state subsidy programmes and grants to reduce the costs of solar thermal systems. Examples:
Federal subsidy for efficient buildings (BEG): Grants and loans for PV systems.
Regional subsidies: Many federal states and municipalities offer additional support.
3. long-term savings
After the amortisation period, you generate almost free electricity
.Reduce your electricity bill by up to 80 %.
Maintenance and care of solar systems
Regular maintenance ensures maximum efficiency and extends the service life of your system:
Cleaning: Dust, leaves and dirt can impair the performance of the modules. Cleaning is required about once a year.
Inspection: Check cables, plug connections and the inverter regularly for damage.
Monitoring: Modern monitoring systems help to track the performance of the system in real time.
Future prospects for solar energy
Technological advances: Flexible and lighter modules enable new applications, e.g. in vehicles or building façades.
Integration into smart grids: Solar energy is increasingly being integrated into smart grids
Cost reduction: Advances in production are making solar systems increasingly affordable.
Conclusion: Solar energy for a sustainable future
Solar energy not only offers a sustainable solution to the growing demand for energy, but also significant economic benefits. With a well-planned and well-maintained solar energy system, you can save on electricity costs in the long term, protect the environment and increase your energy independence
Take the first step towards a sunny future - utilise the benefits of solar energy!