SCI 1901E - Energy
Chapter Objectives - Chapter 6: Solar Energy
Lesson notes:
Solar energy represents a viable, but under-utilized energy source. In this lesson we will discuss the practical aspects of applying solar energy to a variety of uses, including solar domestic hot water, solar space heating and solar cooling. We will discuss other methods for extracting energy from the output of the Sun later in the course.
Objectives:
1. Be able to describe the physical characteristics of incident solar radiation.
2. Be able to describe how solar energy can be used to provide hot water for domestic uses.
3. Be able to describe how solar energy can be used in both active and passive systems to provide space heating.
4. Be able to calculate the required area for a solar energy collector.
5. Be able to describe how solar energy can be used for cooling.
6. Be able to describe the economic considerations associated with the use of solar energy.
Vocabulary:
insolation
albedo
greenhouse effect
solar constant
solstice
altitude
azimuth
flat plate collector
batch water heaters
thermosiphon
Trombe wall
thermal mass
direct gain
indirect gain
eutectic salts
Homework:
Additional sources of information:
A nice review of solar output and solar thermal energy is provided by the Center for Renewable Energy and Sustainable Technology (CREST).
A good review of passive solar home design is given by the Department of Energy's Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Office.
An article by Bill and Debbie Lord, "Maine Solar House," provides a case study in the use of solar energy to supply home energy requirements. This home also employs photovoltaic devices which will be discussed later in the course.
Last update: February 19, 2009