Solar energy is useful in a variety of ways because the sun is our source of life.
We can use the sun’s energy for a variety of purposes. The sun’s energy can be used for a variety of things, from promoting photosynthesis in plants and creating electricity using photovoltaic cells to heating food and water.
What are some of the uses of solar energy? Explore 51 ways that we use sunlight every day.
Home SYSTEMS
1. SOLAR ELECTRICITY
In recent years, this solar energy application has grown in popularity.
Solar electricity is becoming more accessible as solar panel prices decrease and people become more aware of the financial and environmental benefits. Solar electricity is increasing rapidly, even though it still represents a small percentage of electricity in the U.S.
Installing a distributed PV system is usually done by technicians on rooftops of businesses or homes. The solar power system generates electricity to offset the property owner’s consumption and sends any excess production back to the electric grid.
2. SOLAR BATTERIES
Solar batteries can be connected to your solar system. This allows you to use solar power after sundown, and also provides backup power in emergencies. Some homeowners choose to go more off-grid by installing a home solar power system. However, whether this is right for you will depend on a few factors.
- How much energy do you use per day?
- How much sunlight is there in your area?
- Your panels’ efficiency
- The storage capacity of your battery
3. SOLAR GENERATORS
A solar-powered generator is a combination of portable solar panels with a battery and an inverter. All of these components combine to form a generator. It allows you to absorb solar power and then store it for later use.
Camping and boating trips are common places to find solar generators. These generators are also very useful for emergencies, such as when there is a long-term, widespread power outage.
A large generator with a storage capacity of around 20 KW can also power a house for up to 8 hours. This depends on the amount of energy you use in your home, such as lighting and appliances.
4. SOLAR VENTILATION
Solar ventilation systems such as attic fans reduce the load on your HVAC system by cooling your home in the summer. If you are unable to install a solar system that can offset your entire home’s electricity usage, this may be an option. Solatube is a solar attic fan.
Solar ventilation technology is also applicable to industrial and commercial applications. These technologies can heat the air inside a building in cold climates. This reduces energy costs.
5. & 6. SOLAR WATER HEATING
Solar energy can be used by homeowners to power water heaters. System for hot water or air.
7. HEAT WATER SOLAR SYSTEMS
Solar collectors are used to heat water or another fluid, such as antifreeze. Circulating pumps circulate the water from the collector to a storage tank or heat exchanger for immediate warmth.
Because they are large, complex systems, liquid-based solar systems tend to be used more for commercial purposes. They are a good option for home heating.
8. HEAT AIR SOLAR SYSTEMS
Hot air solar systems circulate heated air, such as that which is produced by the sun striking a roof or wall.
These systems are designed by technicians with roofing or siding materials that absorb heat well. Solar power is often used to circulate heated air in the systems.
9. Solar-powered pumps
Some of the above heating systems rely on a water pump to circulate. These pumps consume energy because the electricity in your home powers them. This is the energy that you were hoping to save when installing your solar system.
Installing a solar-powered pump can help you avoid this problem and also save energy. You can use your circulating pump 24/7, regardless of the weather, by installing a generator or battery.
10. Solar heating for your swimming pool
Solar energy is also used to heat swimming pools, particularly in the south and southwest of the United States. The systems circulate the water into a collector where it is heated by sunlight. The heated water is then pumped back into the pool by the system.
The U.S. Department of Energy states that solar pool heating in many climates is the most cost-effective use of solar power. Costs range between $2,500 and $4,000, and the payback period is one to seven years.
11. Solar Heating for your Hot Tub
solar hot tubs, like swimming pools, work using solar collectors.
It may surprise you to learn that solar energy is capable of heating a hot tub. Solar vacuum tubes are so efficient they can overheat your hot tub in summer. Flat plate panels are often used by homeowners in hotter climates to avoid this problem. They do the job without producing too much heat.
You may need a backup heater after the sun goes down, so it is best to use both your solar heater and existing heater.
SOLAR LIGHTING
You can use solar power to light up almost any type of lamp you can think of.
12. SOLAR LANDSCAPE LANDSCAPE LUMINOUS
Landscape lighting is the first thing that comes to mind when you think about solar lighting.
Solar landscape lighting is inexpensive and widely available. From your local hardware shop to online shopping sites like Amazon, you can find everything from basic to high-end design.
The LED technology and improved batteries have made a difference. Now, individual lighting fixtures provide enough light without any wiring. Solar cells and rechargeable batteries are built into each lighting fixture, which can often provide enough power to run your lights throughout the night.
13. SOLAR SECURITY LUMINESS
Solar lighting fixtures are so reliable they can be used for home security.
Solar security lights are powered by batteries, just like landscape lighting. They generate enough power to keep them going through the night. This is particularly true for motion sensor options that store energy to be used when needed.
There are even options that can deliver up to 3500 Lumens. This is enough light to give you and your family peace of mind. Water-resistant features ensure that you won’t have to worry about your product failing due to the weather.
14. SOLAR HOLIDAY LIGHTS
You can use solar Christmas lights to take advantage of the sun during the holidays. Don’t add to the strain on your budget by paying for electricity to power your Christmas lights.
Good Housekeeping has reviewed the seven top solar Christmas lights of 2022. Options range from simple white strings to unique-shaped options.
15. INDOOR SOLAR LIGHTING
You’re mistaken if you think that solar power can only be used to light outdoor lighting.
These indoor solar lights have rechargeable batteries and individual solar cells, just like outdoor solar lighting. Solar cells can be placed wherever the sun is most intense. They don’t have to be located at the same location as the light fixture.
There are many options, from table lamps to pendant lighting. Mashable featured the Skylight as an innovative indoor solar lighting solution. It increases natural light and reduces energy consumption.
SOLAR APPLIANCES
Solar power may be sufficient to run appliances with low energy demands. Most large appliances such as washers, dryers, and refrigerators are available in energy-efficient versions that make them perfect for solar-powered houses.
16. SOLAR OVENS
Solar Ovens (aka solar cookers) are an excellent way to cook in the event of a power outage, when camping, or to reduce your electricity bill. Solar ovens work by capturing and storing the thermal energy of the sun.
Imagine your car’s windows rolled down on a sunny, hot day. The windows allow the thermal energy of the sun to enter and be trapped, and as a consequence, the air inside becomes hotter. No wonder our cars can feel like ovens on hot days.
You can build most solar ovens yourself using a few simple materials. If DIY is not for you, you may also buy one.
17. SOLAR COOLER
It’s time you got up to date if you still carry an ice-packed coolant when you go to the park.
The solar-powered cooler is the new standard. These coolers ensure that your food remains cool longer, and they eliminate the problem of melting ice. Solar panels provide energy for portable power stations, which then transfer that energy into the cooler.
Here are the six most popular solar-powered coolers for 2022. Five of them can also be used as freezers.
18. SOLAR BLUETOOTH PORTABLE SPEAKER
Solar-powered Bluetooth speakers are just like your wireless speakers. They can be charged without electricity because they come with solar panels.
Solar speakers are perfect for those who spend a lot of time outside or on the move, like when camping or traveling.
19. SOLAR CALCULATORS
Did you know that calculators powered by solar energy have been available since the 1960s? You’ve used one, you know!
Solar calculators are equipped with tiny solar cells, which are usually mounted on the top. Solar cells are a great option for calculators that require little power to operate.
20. SOLAR FLASHLIGHTS & LANTERNS
You’ll be happy you chose a solar-powered lantern or flashlight when the power goes off or the sun sets and you run out of batteries. Some of the best options can last up to thirty hours when fully recharged, which makes them lifesavers during an emergency.
21. WIRELESS SOLAR KEYBOARD
Wireless keyboards are more comfortable to use because they can be placed wherever you feel most comfortable. You don’t need to worry about cords.
You’ll regret not choosing a solar keyboard when the batteries run out in the middle of a project. Here are ten excellent solar keyboards for you to check out.
22. SOLAR BATTERY CARRIERS
Phones and tablets are always on us in our world of connectivity (and often low on batteries). Portable solar chargers allow us to charge our electronic devices wherever we go.
Solar cells have been used in watches and phones since the 1970s. Researchers from Japan developed solar cells that are lightweight and water-resistant. We could sew them into clothing in the future to power devices.
23. SOLAR SECURITY CAMERA
Surprisingly, a table umbrella with solar panels is another clever solar-powered device!
The solar panels are attached to the umbrella’s top and charge the battery when the sun shines. The solar batteries provide LED lights for the umbrella’s underside at night.
These solar-powered umbrella lights can be used to illuminate your tabletop so you can read, play cards, and more.
25. The Solar-Powered WiFi Garbage Bins
In major U.S. Cities, garbage bins with WiFi connectivity are becoming more common. They’re becoming more common in other countries, including Stockholm, Amsterdam, and Dublin.
Bigbelly is a company that creates waste and recycling solutions for public places. They made the smart bins. They’ve had a major impact on city cleanliness and WiFi accessibility.
Solar panels are built into these solar-powered bins, which generate enough energy to power WiFi. Passersby can then take advantage of WiFi hotspots on their commute.
It might not be ideal to stand near a steaming, full trash can during the summer. Free WiFi is always welcome, especially when it’s powered by green energy.
Home Beautification
Solar energy can be used to beautify your outdoor area.
26. SOLAR GARDEN DECORATIONS
You’ll find solar garden decor that suits your style, from solar-powered light-up windchimes to colorful ornaments in the form of animals, insects, and flowers.
27. SOLAR BIRD FEEDER
Solar-powered bird feeders are available in an incredible range of designs and options.
You can find bird feeders, which are essentially outdoor lights with integrated feeders. They charge the batteries with solar panels during the day and then light up at night to create ambiance.
The Bird Buddy is a product that falls in the high-end category. Bird Buddy is an intelligent bird feeder that has an integrated camera. You can receive notifications via your smartphone when birds visit. The Bird Buddy is a bird lover’s dream, as it captures and organizes pictures for you to share and review.
The detachable roof solar panels power all these features.
28. SOLAR WATER FONTAN
What could be more Zen than listening to the water trickle from your garden fountain? It’s knowing that the water fountain won’t add to your electric bill, as it is powered by the sun.
Solar-powered fountains are available in a wide range of sizes and styles. You’re sure to find one that’s perfect for your garden.
29. Solar-powered irrigation controllers
We understand what you are thinking. We know that irrigation timers aren’t very attractive, but we believe they help to keep your lawn lush.
Solar-powered sprinkler controls are great because they allow you to automate irrigation without any wiring. All you need is a garden hose and a water source.
Start with these options to get started.
30. SUN-POWERED UNDERWATER POLISH LIGHTS
The standard lighting around a pool is familiar to most people. You can also add lights to the pool’s floor and side or completely submerged lights.
The submerged lights store energy in batteries that they absorb from the sun throughout the day. The lights will illuminate your pool at night and create a relaxing atmosphere. What better way to enjoy swimming at night than in a pool that is fully illuminated?
SOLAR WEARABLES
Solar can be integrated into products that you use and wear every day. You can now have power wherever you go.
31. SOLAR WATCHES
It’s a hassle to charge batteries, and this is especially true for watches. Does anyone have spare watch batteries?
Solar-powered watches are a great alternative. Solar watches are both environmentally friendly and durable. With more and more brands switching to solar watches, there are many styles available, from casual to sporty.
32. SOLAR BACKPACKS
solar backpacks are a simple solution to a problem: we often have to charge our electronic devices but cannot do so when out and about. Why not build a charger into a product we use every day?
Solar backpacks, which have small solar panels built in and store their energy in a battery, are an innovative solar energy invention. They can be used to charge electronic devices anywhere. They’ll come in handy whether you’re a hiker, photographer, or world traveler.
33. SOLAR BLUETOOTH HEADPHONES
Solar-powered Bluetooth headphones have only recently entered the market. Urbanista released a pair of headphones in 2021, and Adidas did the same in 2022. Both headphones are self-charging, thanks to the solar cells integrated into the headband. They also offer 80 hours of battery life.
34. SOLAR EARBUDS
In August 2022, Urbanista will launch wireless earbuds powered by solar energy. The earbuds also have noise-cancelling capabilities. The solar cells in these earbuds are not in the earbuds themselves but in the charging case.
35. SOLAR HEADSET
Blue Tiger, a company in the United States, has also released “World’s First Solar-Powered Communications Headset.” The headset is powered by Powerfoyle cells and features a noise-canceling Boom Microphone. There are many solar-powered options for listening.
36. SOLAR BIKE HELMET
It’s no surprise that solar power is a growing industry in outdoor equipment. You might be surprised to learn what the batteries are capable of.
Some options, such as POC’s Omne Eternal, generate energy for a rear safety light. WertelOberfell’s ESUB tracks helmet goes further, however:
- The “bone-conduction speakers” are powered by this device. They send sound or vibrations through your bones, not your ears. This allows you to listen to music without having to worry about hearing other sounds.
- You don’t need to do anything manually. It is powered by technology that automatically fits the helmet to your skull.
37. SOLAR TEXTILES
Solar textiles are not yet on the market, but they are in development. They are certainly a new and innovative use of solar.
Scientists are developing solar-cell fabrics for clothing, car seats, and curtains. Researchers at Nottingham Trent University will prove that these textiles can charge mobile phones, smartwatches, and other devices by October 2022. Researchers at Nottingham Trent University believe that electronic textiles have the potential to “change people’s relationship with tech.” We agree.
SOLAR TRANSPORTATION
Solar power has transformed the transportation industry from residential to commercial and public use.
38. Home SOLAR EV Charging
Electric vehicles (EVs), which are expected to account for 5,6% of the global auto market by the end of 2022, up from 2,7% at the beginning of 2021, will be gaining in popularity. With EVs becoming more popular, it is important to find a way that’s environmentally friendly to charge them.
Solar charging for EVs at home is the answer. By installing solar panels, you can charge your electric vehicle without using the grid and save a lot of money on your electricity bill.
Learn more by reading our blog post. How many solar panels do you need to run your EV?
39. SOLAR CARPORTS
Some homeowners build solar carports to power their electric cars (EVs). These structures also protect your electric vehicle (and investment) from the elements.
40. SOLAR-POWERED MOBILE HOUSES AND TINY HOMES
Solar power is a great option for tiny homes because of their lower energy requirements. They have less room for, well, stuff that needs electricity.
Some mobile homes are also compatible with solar systems. If your mobile home is in a neighborhood that runs on its septic or off-grid, it’s best to consult the homeowners association first.
41. PUBLIC SOLAR E-CHARGING
There are solar-powered charging stations for EVs. These stations are perfect for charging quickly when you’re in a hurry. These stations are often paired with parking areas so that drivers can charge while parked.
42. SOLAR PANEL PARKING SLOTS
As the name implies, Solar Panel Parking Lots are parking lots covered with solar panels. Parking lots can utilize ground-mounted systems, but they usually use parking lot structures in order to make more space for cars.
Solar panels on parking lots are becoming more popular due to their many benefits. The benefits include recharging parked cars and providing energy to surrounding buildings.
43. SOLAR BUS STOP SHELTERS
Solar bus shelters are another way to use solar energy for public transport.
Solar panels are installed on top of solar bus shelters or near them. Solar bus shelters can be used to power advertising, lighting, and small devices. Options such as EnGoPlanet have an integrated bench and a phone charging station.
Waiting for the bus isn’t so bad when you have these benefits.
44. SOLAR BENCHES
Solar benches use the same principle as solar bus shelters to create benches that can be used in parks, airports, and anywhere else people like to sit. Solar benches are similar to solar bus stops in that they provide a place for people who want to recharge their phones and also illuminate after sunset.
45. SOLAR STREET LIGHTS
Solar street lighting is a great way to improve public transport, especially in places without reliable grid access. Solar streetlights provide an alternative source of energy for such areas. This not only enhances safety but also lowers the city’s electric bills.
You can also purchase a solar light to illuminate your driveway or street.
46. SOLAR ENERGY IN INDUSTRIES
Solar energy is a powerful tool for industrial applications. This is especially true in industries that have high electricity and equipment needs. Solar energy can be a great way to reduce costs and improve bottom lines.
Outdoor Tools, Products, and Stations
47. Tents powered by solar energy
source hydropanels, you can create your water from thin air and sunlight.
A professional can install this exciting yet expensive technology at residential homes, commercial worksites, schools, and more. It has also been used as a bike accessory for recreational and professional athletes during workouts.
Solar cells embedded in the panels absorb sunlight. The energy generated cools down the air to the point where it can be transformed into water. This innovation makes it possible to have clean drinking water at your fingertips.
49. SOLAR CINEMA
Solar power can also be used to power solar movie theaters. Solar energy is an excellent choice for theaters, which are energy-intensive.
Sol Cinema, for example (located in South Wales), is a theater that runs entirely on solar power. It’s the smallest cinema in the world.
The theatre can accommodate eight adults who will enjoy the usherette, red carpet entrance, and popcorn.
50. SOLAR-POWERED INTERNET CAFES
ZubaBox, a solar-powered Internet cafe, is one of the most popular options.
ZubaBoxes are solar-powered Internet cafes made from shipping containers. The inventors brought it to Kenya, where its first appearance was in Kakuma.
ZubaBox cafés are now being introduced in locations throughout Africa thanks to a partnership between Computer Aid International and AMREF, a UK-registered charity.
51. SPHERICAL SOLAR POWER GENERATOR
Beta. Ray is an invention by architect Andre Broesell that sheds light on new ways to generate solar power.
The device is a massive, tall base with a globe of crystal that acts as a hybrid collector. The world moves and tracks with the sun, and sunlight and moonlight can be concentrated nearly 10,000 times stronger than traditional solar devices.
It is able to squeeze the maximum energy from each ray, whether it’s in the morning or evening when the sun is shining or during an overcast day.
SOLAR ENERGY: ENDLESS USE OPTIONS
Renewable energy has already become a part of everyday life. Solar power will continue to be a driving force for innovation, resulting in new technologies that can improve our lives and create a cleaner environment. What other uses will solar energy have in the future? We can’t wait to learn more!
It’s time to stop renting power from the utility. Solar panels can be installed in your home to generate clean energy and help you save money in the short and long term.