You might be surprised to learn that the range of solar energy systems and applications is huge, even within the UK. As you read on, however, you will probably realise that we are getting used to seeing solar energy systems in a wide range of locations across the country.
It is years since we first saw the advent of solar powered calculators, and small portable items such as solar powered watches are now also available. There is also a wide range of slightly larger portable solar energy systems available, and you can read more about these on our Portable Solar Power page.
You will also undoubtedly have seen a number of solar energy systems in locations around cities and motorways. These include solar powered emergency telephones, motorway signs, parking meters and even bus shelters. In many of these cases it is difficult to access mains power and off-grid solar energy systems solve this problem and provide a clean, renewable source of energy.
Of course, in addition to these uses, there are also solar panels available for your home or business in the form of Solar Thermal Panels to provide hot water and Solar Photovoltaic Panels to generate electricity. More information on the structure of these panels can be found on our Solar Panels page.
Solar panels can also be used in large free-standing solar installations, and panels are also used in applications such as on satellites. As technology develops, more light-weight and easier to produce solar panels will hopefully make this form of renewable energy cheaper, meaning that we might begin to see even more solar energy systems on our buildings and in our streets.
For further information on Solar Power click on the links below
