Sun - the source of all energy - past, present, and future.

Solar energy has been there since the beginning of time. Science tells us that even Earth was part of the sun at one time. History lessons apart, solar energy is a part of our daily routine. From the sun being a source of Vitamin D for our bodies to drying clothes out in the open. Crops grow because of the energy from the sun. The sun provides the energy for the rain cycle. The ocean currents and the winds across the planet are all dependent on the sun. Our everyday life is completely tied in with the energy from the sun. Hence one can safely argue that all energy is essentially solar.

Converting solar energy directly in to Electricity is a little different. That takes a bit of science and technology. There are two distinct technologies at play in the world. The first is to use the heat of the sun and the other is to use the light. The solar panels that we see at home convert sunlight in to electrical energy. We can also use the heat – as we do in solar water geysers – or in solar-thermal projects. Each technology has its benefits and I will delve in to those in a future post.

Imagine a future where energy is virtually free. The reality is that this is no longer just a passing statement or wishful thinking. A review of technology developments show that most of us may see that day within our lifespan. And guess where a lot of this research is concentrated – yep it is in renewables. That day will be a truly earth changing event and I hope to be there as an integral part of the team that creates this free energy for everyone.

Where will you be when that happens?