Where Is Solar Energy?: How to Find It and Who’s Using It

Solar power is energy from the sun that’s changed into thermal or electrical energy. The amount of solar energy that the earth gets daily is much larger than the whole amount of energy that people consume. But on the surface of the earth, solar energy is a sporadic energy resource. The quantity and intensity of sunlight changes depending on the time of day and place. Climate and weather conditions impact the access to sunshine every day.

Solar power is the cleanest and easiest to access renewable technology. We can use this energy for many different daily needs, including generating energy, creating light, and heating water for domestic, commercial, or industrial use.

So, where does it comes from, and who’s using it?

Where Solar Energy Comes From

Anywhere there’s sun, there’s solar energy. It is the easiest way to access energy on earth. However, it is an intermittent source of energy, which means that how much UV you’ll be able to get depends on where you live and your climate. Luckily, we have found many solutions to that problem.

There are multiple ways to access solar energy: photovoltaics (or PV panels), solar heating, focusing solar energy, and passive solar.

The first three are active solar systems, which means technological devices are used to harness the sun’s energy. Passive solar, on the other hand, requires no technology, and instead uses buildings that are designed and oriented to collect, save, and disperse the heat energy from the sun to heat up the building.

Who’s Using Solar Energy?

Germany

Germany is the number one country using solar energy. Not only have they installed thousands of solar panels, but it appears they will be on fully renewable energy by 2050. They have been the top buyer of solar panels for several years now, and they are expected to continue this trend for at least the next several months.

Spain

Though Spain is not yet at Germany’s level of converting to solar energy, it's definitely their top contender. The reason it’s not yet caught up is because, during its economic meltdown, there wasn’t much need for electricity at all, which postponed the installing of solar power panels. Now, however, that will probably change.

Italy

9% of Italy’s energy comes from solar power. In just two weeks, every two weeks, they are setting up more - a lot more - solar panels in the country than there are panels set up in California during an entire year. Despite this amazing progress, Italy is currently adding solar energy at a slower rate than was previously expected.

Japan

In 2009, Japan budgeted $9 billion just on solar energy. Also in 2009, the prime minister revealed that 32,000 public colleges within Japan would see the installation of solar power. They continue to develop quickly, coming in just behind Italy.

United States

Utility prices continue to go up, and so, too, does the use of solar power. Within the US, California is topping the lead on solar-powered states, being the state contributing to 60% of all solar installations. Though the federal tax credit is close to its expiration date, solar panel manufacturing continues to climb. Watch out, Germany!

Czech Republic

Despite the Czech Republic’s colder climate and a smaller population, they, too, are in the race to getting the most solar in the world. Land in the Czech Republic is very cheap, which makes it easier to install more solar and allows the Czech Republic to have a leg in this solar race.

Want to learn more about the solar industry? Check out the HahaSmart blog!

HahaSmart Blog - More Solar Tips and Guide
HahaSmart News - Stay Informed
Your Solar Incentives - See Credits and Incentives in Your Area
Check Your Home's Solar Price - See How Much You Save
Register Now - Unlock The Lowest Solar Prices in Your Area