How Is Solar Energy Harnessed Efficiently?

Solar Panels

• Currently, solar energy is harnessed through solar cells, the building blocks of solar panels. These cells are usually made of silicon, which partially conducts electricity and is referred to as a "semiconductor". As sunlight hits the silicon, it absorbs some of the light energy. This light energy then excites tiny particles known as "electrons" within the silicon. They become so excited that they have enough energy to leave the silicon entirely.

Collection

• These electrons do not just escape. Instead, they are channeled through a series of metal leads and wires. This flow of electrons is what we refer to as "electricity", and it is used to provide power to almost everything, including electrical appliances in our homes, street lights and trams. Unfortunately, solar panels are not yet efficient enough to provide mankind with all of its power needs.

Plants

• Human beings are not the only species to harness solar energy. Plants, and some bacteria, harness the power of the sun through a process called "photosynthesis". Photosynthesis occurs when light is essentially absorbed by green chlorophyll, which is then combined with water to make sugar. This process is the reason that plants need water and the chemical reaction that takes place within the plant releases oxygen into the atmosphere, allowing us to breathe. The plant also gets something out of the process, as it uses sugar to grow. When a small animal eats a plant and is then eaten by a bigger animal, that solar energy carries on up the food chain. At the very top of the food chain are human beings. Plants are far more efficient than us at harnessing solar energy because all life on earth is dependent on them for oxygen and food.

Oriental Hornet

• A recent discovery by a research team from Tel Aviv University could revolutionize the way we harness solar energy. Researchers found out that the oriental hornet, which will often be seen flying around your garden, has tiny solar cells on its abdomen which it uses to create electricity. This electricity then powers it to harvest flowers. Scientists are now eager to establish just how the oriental hornet manages to do this so they can replicate the process.