There are various applications of Solar Energy in Maui, but one must first understand how solar energy is harnessed. There are two basic types of technologies which are used to harness solar energy. They are:
1. STE (Solar Thermal Energy) This technology usually has just one application and that is pool heating. Its uses include solar hot water heating and solar pool heating.
2. PV (Photovoltaic Solar) This converts the sun’s rays into usable electricity for residential and commercial buildings by using solar panels.
Let’s now take a more in-depth look at STE.
Solar Thermal Energy
This is the oldest and the most extensively used type of solar system. It works by converting the sun’s energy into heat energy. It allows the sun to heat the solar panel or collector which then heats the fluid or water. The water/fluid is then pumped through the system to where it is needed or as is the case with certain solar pool heaters, circulated using convection.
This system is mainly used for heating of residential and commercial pool, hot water heating, and large-scale generation of electricity. The new solar plant which is being set up by OUC is a good example of solar thermal energy.
Solar pool heating usually make use of what is referred to as low-temperature collectors, while a solar hot water makes use of a medium temperature collector. The high-temperature collectors are most commonly used in the large-scale generation of electric energy, mainly for utility companies. They operate by concentrating the rays of the sun using lenses or mirrors which heat up the fluid. The process of heating up is known as CSP (Concentrated Solar Power). Afterward, the heated fluid is converted to gas or steam or gas, which is then used to power a turbine that generates the electricity.
The solar panels which are used in thermal collection are of three major types, but the most common is the flat plate collector which is also known as the solar hot water panel. It is the oldest form of solar technology and remains the most extensively used. It is used for heating of solar hot water systems, pools and large scale utility electricity production. Flat plate panels are very cost effective and also work very well in the Maui climate.
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