How do they work?

Solar panels are quickly adorning so many roofs around Australia which is GREAT to see as they help us create clean, planet-friendly energy. But how do they work? Well, it’s a great question and one I will answer this week ✨.

👀 Explain it to me!

Okay, let’s spill the tea! Solar panels work by converting sunlight into electricity through a process known as the photovoltaic effect. Each solar panel consists of many solar cells, typically made from silicon, a semiconductor material. When sunlight hits these cells, the energy from the light knocks electrons loose from the atoms in the silicon. These free electrons flow through the material, generating an electric current. This current is then captured by wiring within the panel and can be used to power electrical devices, stored in batteries, or fed into the power grid. How cool is science?!

🌞 Are they Efficient?

Great question! The efficiency of solar panels depends on a bunch of things, including the quality of the materials used, the design of the cells, and the amount of sunlight the panels receive. Modern solar panels are designed to maximise the absorption of sunlight and minimise energy losses, making them increasingly efficient at converting solar energy into usable electricity. They also include components like inverters, which convert the direct current (DC) electricity generated by the panels into alternating current (AC), the type of electricity most commonly used in homes and businesses.

💁🏼‍♀️ How do they help us reach net zero?

Solar panels are crucial in helping us achieve net-zero carbon emissions. By harnessing the sun's energy, a clean and renewable resource, they provide a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels, which release carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases when burned to create energy. As more homes, businesses, and utilities adopt solar power, the reliance on carbon-intensive energy sources decreases, significantly reducing overall carbon emissions. Solar panels also have the potential to generate excess electricity that can be stored or shared within a community, further enhancing energy resilience and reducing dependence on non-renewable resources. This transition to renewable energy sources like solar is a key strategy in global efforts to combat climate change and reach net-zero goals. Plus, renewable energy like this will help pull people out of fuel poverty. A fun fact for your next dinner party, if we can electrify (make it renewable) the global grid we will be able to achieve net zero.

Sustainable Living Tips

Every job can be a climate job if you make it one. That’s because every job needs employees who are putting the planet first. So this week, I thought why not give you some tips on how to best bring sustainability to your workplace.

💼 Adopt Green Office Practices: Encourage sustainable habits in the workplace by implementing green office practices. This can include reducing paper usage by going digital, setting up recycling stations, reminding people to bring their reusables and using energy-efficient lighting and equipment. Simple changes like setting computers to energy-saving modes, turning off lights when not in use, and minimising waste through reusable or compostable office supplies can make a significant difference.

🚲 Promote Sustainable Commuting: Encourage employees to adopt more sustainable commuting options, such as carpooling, biking, walking, or using public transportation. Remote work options and flexible schedules can also reduce the need for daily commuting, further cutting down on carbon emissions.

🌱 Source Eco-Friendly Products and Services: Make sustainability a priority when sourcing products and services for your workplace. Choose suppliers who prioritise environmentally friendly practices, such as using recycled materials, reducing packaging, and minimising carbon emissions in their production processes. This applies to everything from office supplies and cleaning products to the vendors and partners you work with. Supporting sustainable businesses not only reduces your environmental impact but also encourages a broader shift towards eco-friendly practices in the business community.

🌊 Scientists discovered deep sea oxygen which could aid in the fight to stop sea bed mining globally.

🌾 Scientists in Bega are adopting new practices to make all the farms in the area more circular.

🏅 The Olympics are using recycled cardboard to make beds for the athletes, reducing a huge amount of waste.