In a nutshell, a solar panel converts direct sunlight into electricity by removing electrons from atoms and generating a current flow. Such solar-energy accumulating panels are made up of many smaller components known as photovoltaic cells.

However, it can be not enough to pick only panels and batteries for building a full-fledged solar system. To connect panels to batteries to produce electricity, you’ll require five fundamental components.

Do you have solar panels on your RV? If not, you should consider adding them! Solar energy-based panels are a great way to generate power while camping and they can help keep your batteries charged up.

In this blog post, we will discuss how to hook up solar panels to RV batteries. We will go over the basics of wiring and show you how to connect everything correctly. So, if you’re interested in adding solar panels to your RV, keep reading!

Basic Components

Solar Panels

Solar cells capture photons (tiny particles of light) in the photovoltaic cells. These cells make up a solar panel. Photovoltaic means they convert direct sunlight into electricity. A solar panel is made up of many cells connected together. You’ll need to figure out how many solar panels you’ll require.

Solar Charge Controllers

PWM Charge Controller

A Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) Charge Controller is the most common type used with RVs. It uses an algorithm to control the charging process and prevents overcharging. You can usually find these for around $100.

MPPT Charge Controller

Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) Charge Controllers are more expensive, but they are more efficient. They convert the higher voltage from the solar panels into the lower voltage that is required by the batteries. This means that you can use fewer solar panels and save money. When the cloudiness increases, your MPPT charge controller reduces the amount of current drawn in order to keep a desirable voltage at the panel’s output. When it becomes sunny again, the MPPT controller will enable additional power from each panel.

An Inverter

The inverter transforms 12-volt DC power from your battery into 120-volt AC power. This amount can be enough to run most appliances like a microwave, coffee maker, or television. A solar energy-powered system without an inverter would just allow your 12-volt DC power system to function as intended.

Batteries

Solar panels generate electricity, which is stored in the battery and used when you need it. There are 3 types of batteries:

• AGM Lead Acid batteries;
• Flooded Cell Lead Acid batteries;
• LifePO Lithium cells;

The number of batteries you’ll require will be determined by the wattage of each appliance and how long you’ll be off-grid. AGM lead-acid batteries are made with a glass mat that absorbs the electrolyte, making them spill-proof.Flooded cell lead acid batteries have liquid electrolyte that needs to be monitored and maintained at the correct level.LifePO lithium batteries are more expensive but provide more power and last longer than lead-acid batteries.The lead-acid battery was the first rechargeable battery produced commercially available and was invented in 1859. It’s the most popular battery today, and there are several reasons for its success. First, it’s more dependable and less expensive per watt when compared to other batteries. Although advancements in manufacturing tech and materials have occurred, the fundamental operation of the battery has remained unchanged throughout time. If you’re interested in learning more about batteries and other topics related to home improvement and maintenance, you may want to check out the HomeProfy.de blog.

A Transfer Switch

The inverter needs to be wired directly to a circuit breaker in your RV’s electrical panel. A generator can also be wired into this same circuit breaker. The transfer switch allows you to select one of the two power sources without damaging any of your equipment. Without a transfer switch, you would have to manually disconnect one power source before connecting the other. This could cause damage to your equipment and pose a safety hazard. A typical 30-amp RV service provides enough power for most campers’ needs. However, if you are running multiple air conditioners or other high-wattage appliances, you may need a 50-amp service. Most RVs come with both a 30-amp and 50-amp service connection.

What Size Solar Panel Do I Need to Charge My RV Battery?

A 200 to 400-watt panel installation should be enough to power all your RV batteries if there is direct sunshine. A 200-watt system should be sufficient for basic power requirements – lights, fans, propane appliance electronics, phone chargers, and so on – at the bottom of the scale. Now add a television, microwave, and other higher-powered electrical gadgets, and you’ll most likely need closer to 400 watts (or more).

Solar Panel Output

The amount of power that your solar panel produces depends on the size of the panel, sunlight intensity (irradiance), and the angle between the sun and the panel. Solar panels are rated by their maximum output in watts under optimal conditions. The actual output will be less than the rating due to shading, soiling, clouds, and other factors. For example, a 100-watt solar panel with an efficiency of 15% will produce about 15 watts under full sun conditions. If you multiply this by six hours of peak sun per day, you’ll get 90 watt-hours (15 watts x six hours = 90 watt-hours). This is enough to power a small 12-volt DC appliance for several hours. You can find the output rating of a solar panel in the manufacturer’s specifications. The efficiency is usually between 12% and 20%. The higher the efficiency, the more power you’ll get from a given area [of your roof or ground]. Solar panels are available in different sizes, so you can choose one that fits your needs and budget. There are many solar calculators on the internet to assist you to determine your solar wattage needs, but because there are so many variables involved, they’re little more than educated guesses. The calculators seek to match your recreational vehicle’s electrical power demands with the electricity output of your solar cells. However, the only way to know for sure is to put your system to the test in the wild. And if you’ve prepared properly for your solar power installation, you’ll be able to quickly expand it with extra panels as needed.

How to Hook Up Solar Panel to RV Batteries

Mounting

First, you’ll need to mount the panels on the RV’s roof. Ensure that they’re positioned in such a way to get direct sunlight throughout the day. You’ll also need to connect the panels to your RV’s electrical system. This can be done by running a wire from the positive terminal of the panel to the positive terminal of the battery and then doing the same for the negative terminals. Once everything is hooked up, you should see a noticeable increase in your RV’s battery life!

Connect the Charge Controller to the Battery Bank

Now that the panels are mounted and connected to the RV, it’s time to connect the charge controller. This is a vital component as it ensures that the batteries don’t get overloaded with power. To do this, simply connect the positive and negative terminals of the controller to the corresponding terminals on the battery bank.

Connect the Controller to the RV Panels

With the charge controller in place, you can now connect it to the RV solar panels. Again, you’ll need to connect the positive and negative terminals of both the controller and the panels.

Double-Check the Connections to Make Sure Everything is Working

Now that everything is hooked up, it’s important to double-check the connections to make sure that they’re all secure.

Connect a Solar Inverter to the Battery Bank

The last step is to connect an inverter to the battery bank. This will allow you to turn on the gadgets that require AC power while you’re dry camping. All you ought to do is to connect the positive and negative terminals of the inverter to the corresponding terminals on the battery bank. Once everything is hooked up, you should be able to use your RV’s electrical system just like you would at a campsite with hookups!

FAQ

Can I connect the solar panel directly to the RV battery?

Connecting a solar panel to a battery (or battery bank) directly may work if the solar panel is extremely low wattage (5 watts or less), but it’s not suggested. To safely charge your camper battery for optimum performance and longevity, use a battery charge controller.

How do you know if a solar panel is charging a battery?

Look at the color of the lights shining on the box during ordinary daylight hours when the system is supposed to be operating. If your inverter has a green light, your system is working properly. During daytime hours, a red or orange glow indicates that there’s a problem with the system. If you’re not sure whether your system is working properly, have it checked by a qualified technician.

How many solar panels do I need to power my RV AC?

To run your RV air conditioner for 8 hours each day, you’ll need at least 1,800 watts of solar panels. This is based on 12-volt RV-grade solar cells. Of course, there’s also the issue of battery power.

How fast will a 200-watt solar panel charge a 12-volt battery?

The charging time for a 12-volt battery using a 200-watt solar panel might be anywhere from 5 to 8 hours. But this will depend on the size of the battery, weather conditions, and how much power is being drawn from the battery while it’s charging.

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The number of solar panels required by an RV is determined by the site as well as the daily electrical usage on board. If you’re an RV enthusiast, then you know the importance of having a reliable power source. In this blog post, we will discuss the basics of solar power for RVs and help you determine how much solar power you need. We’ll also provide some tips on choosing the right solar system for your needs. So, whether you’re just getting started with solar or you’re looking to upgrade your current system, read on for helpful information!

The Principles of Solar Panels Operation for RVs

RV solar systems work the same way as traditional solar panels for a home. The main difference is size and portability. Most systems have an array of solar panels, either mounted directly on your rig or on a portable module set up on the ground at your site. The solar panels capture energy from natural solar energy. And then these smart panels accumulate energy to convert it into electricity later — specifically, DC power. However, it doesn’t mean you may only use DC systems when camping or boondocking. Surely, you may install inverters to convert DC power to AC. There are several ways to modify your solar installation to meet your requirements, but every system comprises 3 primary components:

• Solar panels convert sunlight directly into electricity you may use in your RV;
• Charge Controller – converts the direct solar energy from the panels into a form that can be readily stored;
• Batteries – keep a supply on hand to use when it is cloudy;

Most RVs are designed to work with DC electricity for your lights, water pump, slides, refrigerator, and heater. Many more recent versions feature USB ports that operate on DC current to charge small gadgets like cell phones. If you want to use household outlets, you’ll need an inverter. Inverters convert the DC electricity stored in your batteries into AC power that may be used with your television and microwave. Because most RVers opt to keep their systems basic, inverters are typically pricey ($200 – $2,000+). Because many RVers prefer to use DC electricity rather than Inverting devices, they keep things simple and rely on DC power.

How To Calculate the Necessary Size of a Solar System For Your RV

Consider All The RV Gadgets You Use Daily

One method to calculate how much electricity you use is to estimate your daily use of necessary RV appliances, gadgets, and devices. Also, you should consider how long you utilize them when using your RV as a place of inhabitance. The primary goal is to calculate your daily watt-hours used. All contemporary gadgets have specific labels stating how much power they consume. If the gadget only has an amperage value, divide by voltage to get watts. A 120-volt hair dryer is suitable only for13 amps. The hairdryer’s power consumption would be around 1,600 watts (120 x 13 = 1,560). If you take a small appliance like a standard hair dryer, for example, and use it each morning for 5 minutes (5 mins is about .1 hours), you’ll consume 160 watt-hours each day (1,600 watts X 1 hour equals 160 watt-hours). Now, go through this procedure for all RV appliances. To figure out the watt-hour usage, combine all of the daily watt-hour consumption for every gadget. Then sum it up.

Do A Camping Test Run

After you’ve gathered all this information, it’s time to do a test run. If you have an RV, start your trip and take note of how much power you use each day. This will give you a more accurate estimation of your power needs. If you don’t have an RV, consider renting one for the weekend or borrowing one from a friend.You could also visit an RV dealership and ask to walk through some models to get a feel for the space and what kind of appliances they have. This will assist when it comes time to purchase your own rig.

The Number of Solar Panels in Your RV

Peak Sun Hours

The amount of GHI varies from one location to the next (Global Horizontal Irradiation). In a nutshell, solar irradiance (GHI) is the intensity that reaches Earth’s surface, taking into account all sorts of weather conditions. Because different locations around the world have varying amounts of peak sun hours, you won’t know the number of solar panels your RV will require until you account for them.

Electrical Consumption

The average RV owner uses about 30 kWh of electricity per day, but this number can be higher or lower depending on your specific needs. If you’re not sure how much power you consume in a day, we recommend doing a home energy audit to get a better idea. You can use any online solar calculator to estimate how many solar panels you’ll need based on your daily electricity consumption and the number of sun hours available at your location. Keep in mind that the size of your RV will also play a role in how much power you need. A smaller RV will obviously require less power than a larger one.

Solar Panel Output Rating

On top of their roof, most RVs have 100-watt or 200-watt solar panels. The average 100-watt solar panel produces about 30 kWh of electricity per day. So, if you have a 100-watt solar panel and you use 30 kWh of electricity in a day, your panel will offset all of your power usages. However, if you use more than 30 kWh of electricity in a day, you’ll need to supplement your power with an additional source, like a generator.

What You Should Know When Using Solar Energy

Batteries

Many people feel that the battery bank is the most important component of the system. It doesn’t matter how much energy the panels accumulate and produce the energy without delays when it is cloudy. For years, lead-acid batteries were installed in standard U.S. RV electrical systems by default. Because of their simplicity of use and low cost. They come with a number of drawbacks, such as the need for regular maintenance and damage if drained below 50% of their capacity. Lithium-ion batteries are a more recent tech that has several benefits over lead-acid batteries. They have greater storage capacity, efficiency, and depth of discharge. All these factors are important if you’re going to rely on the system of solar panels as well as your primary energy source. Lithium batteries also weigh half as much as lead-acid batteries. Their huge advantage is almost zero maintenance, with the exception of some lithium iron phosphate variants.

Budget

The initial cost of a solar system can be prohibitive for some people, but it’s important to remember that you’re making an investment in your future energy needs. Solar panels have come down in price significantly over the past few years, and they continue to become more affordable as technology improves. You should also consider the long-term costs of operating your RV with a generator. Fuel is expensive, and generators are notoriously finicky, often requiring costly repairs or replacement. A properly sized solar system will eventually pay for itself many times over.

Roof Space

Solar panels aren’t tiny, and RV roofs are rather small. Carefully measure the required parameters and compare them to the dimensions of any potential solar panels if you’re roof-mounting them. Measure twice just to be safe. Some heavy electricity users might not have enough space on their RV’s roof to produce the power they require. If this is the case, you’ll need to explore adding additional energy sources or growing your battery bank in order to store more energy on your roof.

Portable Or Permanent Panels To Install?

You require to decide if you require a portable or permanent solar solution. Portable solar panels are great for people who like to move around often, but they’re not as efficient as permanently installed panels. Permanent systems tend to be more expensive and require more work to install, but they’re much more efficient and can often be integrated with your RV’s existing electrical system. If you have the time and money, a permanent system is usually the better option.

How Many Batteries Do I Need For RV Solar?

There are two primary sorts of RV batteries: lithium and lead acid. The most significant advantage of pricey lithium batteries is the ability to use their full storage capacity without draining them completely. If you discharge more than 50% of a lead acid battery’s capacity more than a few times, the battery’s lifespan will be greatly reduced. As a result, if you intend to utilize lead acid batteries, you should double the bank size from the RV solar calculator.

What Size Inverter Do I Need For My RV?

To start, you’ll need to know the wattage of the appliances you want to run off of the installed solar panels. The average coffee maker, for example, uses about 600 watts.A laptop computer uses about 60 watts, while a desktop uses about 120 watts. If you want to run a TV and DVD player, you’re looking at about 400 watts. Inverters transform the DC power stored in your batteries into AC electricity that wall outlets can use. An inverter’s wattage is indicated. The maximum number of watts that may be used at once is determined by the inverter’s capacity. For example, you have a 3000-watt inverter. This strong inverter allows us to use big appliances like our microwave (1500 watts), but it will trip the circuit if we connect too many large devices together. You’ll want a 500-watt or greater inverter for any appliances with a rating higher than your most powerful device. So you won’t have to run about and unplug phones before turning on the microwave.

FAQ

Will a 100-watt solar panel keep my RV battery charged?

A 100-watt panel will typically produce 30 amp-hours of power per day into your batteries, according to the rule of thumb. To meet your solar requirements, you’ll need 1.33 100-watt panels or a 133-watt panel.

How many batteries can you hook up to a 100-watt solar panel?

A 100-watt solar panel may be used to charge 12V batteries. The amount of time this would take is determined by the battery’s capacity and the amount of sunshine it receives. It might take anywhere from 10 to 14 hours to fully charge a battery depending on how powerful it is and how much sun exposure it has had.

Can a 100-watt solar panel run a refrigerator?

A 100-watt solar panel, in general, may only operate a refrigerator for a few hours at most before requiring a battery. On average, 400 watt-hours of energy per day can be produced by 100 watts of solar panels. A refrigerator with an integrated freezer consumes 2000 watt-hours each day.

How long will a 200W solar panel take to charge a battery?

It’s a good idea to start by looking at your RV electrical usage. To do this, you’ll need to find your RV’s average daily power consumption. This is the total amount of electricity used by all the appliances and devices in your RV, divided by the number of days that you use them. You can find this information on your RV’s energy label, or you can calculate it yourself using a wattmeter. Once you estimate the average daily power consumption of your RV, it will be easier to install the panels for comfort and energy-efficient usage while camping. For example, if your RV uses 30 kWh of electricity per day, you would need between six and twelve 200-watt monocrystalline solar panels to offset that usage.

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1. Solar Energy

Solar energy is one of the most popular and fastest-growing renewable energy sources. It’s also one of the most profitable, with solar panels often providing 20% or more return on investment.

2. Wind Energy

Wind energy is another renewable resource that is quickly gaining popularity. Like solar, it can be quite profitable, with some estimates putting the return on investment at around 15%.

3. Geothermal Energy

Geothermal energy is a bit more niche than solar and wind, but it can still be profitable. Geothermal power plants can have an investment return of 30% or more.

4. Hydroelectric Energy

Hydroelectric energy is another renewable resource that can be pretty profitable. Hydroelectric dams can have returns on investment of up to 20%.

5. Biomass

Biomass is an organic matter that is converted into energy. This method is considered a renewable source of energy. Some common examples of biomass are wood, landfill gas, and agricultural waste. It has been estimated that the return of investment for biomass projects is about 20%.

If you’re looking to invest in an energy source that will give you a good return on your investment, solar, wind, geothermal, hydroelectric, and biomass are all great options to consider. Do your research to find out which one is the best fit for you and your needs.

What are the benefits of using these energy sources?

There are many benefits to using renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power. These energy sources can help to reduce dependence on fossil fuels, provide cleaner energy options, and create jobs in the green energy sector.

1. Reduced Dependence on Fossil Fuels

Renewable energy sources can help to reduce their dependence on fossil fuels, such as coal and oil. It is important because fossil fuels are a finite resource that will eventually run out. Additionally, burning fossil fuels releases harmful greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, causing climate change. Using renewable energy sources instead of fossil fuels can help preserve these resources for future generations and protect their planet from further damage.

2. Cleaner Energy Options

Renewable energy sources are much cleaner than fossil fuels. They do not release harmful greenhouse gases or other pollutants into the atmosphere. It means that they are better for otheirur health and the environment.

3. Creates Jobs

The renewable energy sector is one of the fastest-growing industries in the world. This growth creates new jobs in engineering, construction, manufacturing, and many other fields. These jobs cannot outsource, and they help to boost local economies.

4. Stabilizes Energy Prices

Fossil fuels are subject to price fluctuations due to supply and demand, weather, and political instability. Renewable energy sources are not subject to these same fluctuations, meaning they can provide a more stable energy source.

5. Reduces dependence on imported energy

Renewable energy sources can help to reduce their reliance on imported energy. It is essential because it makes us less vulnerable to disruptions in the global energy market and can help to save money.

6. Helps to Achieve Environmental Goals

Many countries have set environmental goals, such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Renewable energy can help to achieve these goals by providing cleaner energy options that do not release harmful pollutants into the atmosphere.

7. Saves Money

In many cases, renewable energy can save you money. It is because it can stabilize energy prices and reduce your dependence on imported energy. Additionally, the initial cost of investing in renewable energy may be higher than the cost of using fossil fuels. Still, over time the price of renewable energy will decrease while the cost of fossil fuels is expected to increase.

8. Decreases Water Consumption

Fossil fuel power plants use large amounts of water for cooling, and this water is often taken from local sources, leading to decreased water availability and increased costs. Renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, do not require water for cooling and therefore do not have this same impact.

9. Improves Public Health

The emissions from fossil fuel power plants are a leading cause of air pollution, which can lead to respiratory problems, heart disease, and cancer. By switching to renewable energy sources, it can help to improve public health by reducing these harmful emissions.

Are there any drawbacks to using these energy sources

There are many energy sources available today. Some energy sources are renewable, like solar and wind power, while others are non-renewable, like fossil fuels. There are many benefits to using renewable energy sources, but there are also some drawbacks that need to consider.

The main benefit of renewable energy is that it is sustainable. They can continue to use these energy sources indefinitely, as long as the sun shines and the wind blows. They are also much cleaner than fossil fuels, emitting far less pollution into the atmosphere. It is important for their health and the health of the planet.

However, there are some drawbacks to using renewable energy sources. The biggest one is that they are often more expensive than fossil fuels and require special equipment and training to set up and maintain. They also tend to be less efficient than fossil fuels, meaning that they need to use more of them to get the same amount of power.

Conclusion

From the above information, they can see that many different energy sources can be pretty profitable. Solar and wind energy are the most popular and fastest-growing renewable energy sources, but hydroelectric, geothermal, and biomass are good options. Do your research to find out which one is the best fit for you and your needs.

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Many of the world’s largest companies are involved in the energy sector in some way or another. The energy industry is full of big players, from oil and gas conglomerates to renewable energy startups. And it’s not just the companies themselves that are massive. The projects and initiatives these firms undertake can be enormous in scale.

How energy sources help multi-billion companies make money

There are many different types of energy sources, and each has its advantages and disadvantages. Some energy sources are more efficient than others, while some are more expensive to produce. However, each type of energy source has unique benefits that make it valuable to companies. Here are just a few examples of how energy sources help multi-billion companies make money:

1. Oil and gas

These are two of the most commonly used energy sources in the world and two of the most profitable. Oil and gas companies make billions of dollars in profits every year.

2. Coal

Coal is another widely used energy source. It is abundant and relatively cheap to produce. However, it is also one of the most polluting energy sources. Coal-fired power plants release large amounts of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.

3. Nuclear

Nuclear energy is a controversial energy source. Some people believe it is too dangerous, while others believe it is a clean and efficient way to produce electricity. Nuclear power plants are expensive to build, but they generate large amounts of electricity with minimal pollution.

4. Solar

Solar energy is a renewable energy source that is becoming increasingly popular. Solar panels can be used to generate electricity, and solar thermal systems are used to heat water. Solar energy is clean and emissions-free.

5. Wind

Wind energy is another renewable energy source that is growing in popularity. Wind turbines can generate electricity, and wind farms are built in many locations. Wind energy is also clean and emissions-free.

6. Hydro

Hydroelectric power plants use the force of moving water to generate electricity. Hydroelectricity is a renewable energy source that is clean and emissions-free.

7. Geothermal

Geothermal energy is a renewable energy source that uses the heat of the earth’s core to generate electricity. Geothermal power plants are typically built in areas with a lot of geothermal activity, such as near volcanoes.

8. Biomass

Biomass is a renewable energy source that uses organic materials, such as wood, manure, and sewage, to generate electricity. Biomass power plants are usually built in rural areas.

The top 3 energy sources used by multi-billion companies

According to a report by the World Bank, the top three energy sources used by multi-billion companies are coal, oil, and gas. These three energy sources account for over 80% of the world’s total primary energy consumption.

Coal is the most widely used energy source in the world, and it is abundant, affordable, and easy to transport. However, coal is also the most carbon-intensive fossil fuel, making it a major contributor to climate change.

Oil is the world’s second most widely used energy source, and it is a versatile fuel used for transportation, heating, and electricity generation. However, oil is a finite resource, and its production and use have significant environmental impacts.

Gas is the third most widely used energy source in the world. It is a cleaner-burning fossil fuel than coal and oil, and it is often used as a power generation source in areas where coal and oil are not abundant. However, gas is a finite resource, and its production and use can have significant environmental impacts.

How multi-billion companies are contributing to the energy transition

The energy transition is happening. Globally, they see a shift from traditional fossil fuel energy sources to cleaner, renewable sources like solar and wind. This transition is driven by several factors, including the need to combat climate change, the growing cost-competitiveness of renewables, and technological advances.

But it’s not just governments and utilities driving the energy transition – increasingly, it’s also big business. Some of the world’s largest companies play a major role in making the energy transition happen. Here are just a few examples:

1. Google

Google is one of the world’s leading renewable energy buyers. The company has recently signed contracts to purchase over 3 gigawatts (GW) of renewable energy – that’s enough to power more than a million homes. Moreover, Google is also a leading investor in clean energy technology, investing in everything from solar panels to advanced battery storage.

2. IKEA

IKEA is another company that’s big on renewables. The Swedish home furnishings giant has invested €1.5 billion in wind and solar projects and aims to generate as much renewable energy as it consumes by 2020. IKEA is also working to increase the share of renewable energy in its product mix, with a goal of sourcing 100% renewable materials by 2030.

3. Walmart

Walmart is the world’s largest retailer and one of the biggest players in the clean energy space. The company has installed solar panels on more than 1,000 stores and distribution centers and has committed to powering 50% of its operations with renewable energy by 2025. Walmart is also working to electrify its fleet of vehicles and is testing electric semi-trucks in the US.

4. Apple

Apple is one of the most valuable companies in the world, and it’s also a clean energy leader. The company has committed to powering all its operations with renewable energy by 2030, and it’s well on its way to reaching that goal. To date, Apple has built more than 25 GW of renewable energy capacity – including solar, wind, and hydroelectric – around the globe.

5. Amazon

Amazon is another tech giant that’s investing heavily in renewables. The company has signed contracts for more than 3 GW of renewable energy and aims to have 100% of its operations powered by renewables by 2030. Amazon is also working on several clean energy initiatives, including electric delivery vehicles and drone-based package delivery.

6. General Motors

General Motors is one of the world’s largest automakers and a major player in the clean energy space. The company has committed to electrifying its vehicle fleet and aims to have 20% of its global sales be electric vehicles by 2023. GM is also working on a number of other clean energy initiatives, including solar-powered charging stations for electric vehicles.

Conclusion

The energy sector is full of big players, and the projects undertaken by these companies can be massive in scale. From oil and gas conglomerates to renewable energy startups, many different types of companies are involved in the energy industry. And while the sector may be complex, it is clear that energy sources and multi-billion companies are closely related.

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Wind power is one of the fastest growing renewable energy technologies. According to the latest IRENA data, the world’s onshore and offshore wind power generation capacity has increased nearly 75-fold over the past two decades, from 7.5 GW in 1997 to about 564 GW by 2018.

Due to the uneven composition of the ground, terrain, and thickness of the atmospheric layer, the Sun heats the Earth’s surface with varying degrees of intensity. The surface heated by the Sun transmits heat to the air masses above it. Because air density depends on its temperature, zones with different atmospheric pressures are formed (because warm air is lighter and cold air is heavier). As the hot air rises vertically to the Earth’s surface, the cooler air moves along the Earth (horizontally) to fill the resulting void.
Thus, let’s define “Wind” as the process of pressure equalization by moving air masses from a high-pressure region to a low-pressure region, born as a result of the uneven heating of the Earth’s surface.
Wind energy – along with the energy of falling water – is one of the most readily available and used since ancient times a type of transformed energy of the Sun. People began using this type of energy centuries ago, when the first windmills appeared, which pumped water or threshed grain. The term “Wind Energy” can be defined as the energy by which the movement of air masses (wind) is converted into other types of energy.

Most likely, the first mechanism that used wind energy was a simple device with a vertical axis of rotation of the blades, which was used to grind grain. Around 200 B.C., the first mills with a horizontal axis of rotation appeared in Persia. A similar primitive type of windmill is still in use today in many Mediterranean countries.
The first written description of a device to perform mechanical work using the wind is the work of Heron, who described the principle of the windmill in the 1st century AD.
In medieval Europe, windmills began to be built after the Crusaders completed their crusades and returned from Central Asia.
In the tenth century, many cities in Europe began to build windmills using a hydraulic motor.
As early as in the XIV century all over Europe began to use windmills for irrigation of fields in arid areas, for pumping water from the lands, enclosed by dams, as well as for drainage of swamps and lakes.
At the beginning of the 20th century, interest in using wind power for industrial and agricultural purposes grew sharply. In 1890 first wind stations were built in Denmark, and by 1908 (18 years later) there were 72 of them with capacity from 5 to 25 kilowatt each.
By the beginning of XX century in Russian Empire about 2.5 thousand windmills with total capacity of 1 million kW were functioning.
In 1931 not far from Yalta the largest at that time wind power plant with total capacity of about 100 kW was built, and later a project for a 5000 kW unit was developed. But to implement and run the project completely failed.
From the 1940s to the 1970s there were unsuccessful attempts to use wind energy in large-scale power generation. The reason for this was the intensive construction of powerful thermal, hydro and nuclear power plants, as well as distribution power grids to ensure a weather-independent power supply. The low price of produced oil also contributed to this.
Renewed interest in wind power, as well as many other alternative forms of energy (particularly solar), began in the 1970s after the oil crisis. The tipping point clearly showed the strong dependence of many countries and their economies on imported oil, which has led to a search for possible options to reduce this dependence.
Currently, wind power is a rapidly growing and promising industry. By the beginning of 2015, the installed capacity of all wind turbines in the world amounted to 369 GW.

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Solar panels can produce power even when it’s cloudy and even when it’s snowing. For maximum efficiency, they should be installed at a certain angle – the farther away from the equator, the greater the angle of installation of the panels.

Solar energy in one form or another is the source of all energy on Earth. Solar energy provides heat and food for humans as well as for any other animal or plant. At the same time, humans use solar energy and its derivatives in many other ways. For example, the energy of fossil fuels such as oil, coal, and gas burned for power generation and transportation is nothing more than the energy of the sun, bound and stored for millions of years. Another example is biomass. Plants convert the energy of the sun into the energy of chemical bonds, which is released in the process of combustion. For hundreds of years, man has used the energy of the wind, which comes from the irregularity of the air by the sun and the earth’s rotation, in shipping. Today, in addition to the traditional use of wind energy, it is converted into electricity using wind turbines. Even the energy of rivers operated by hydroelectric power plants comes from the Sun. Water evaporates from the Earth’s surface due to the energy of the sun and enters the dams of hydroelectric power plants after it rains.

Photovoltaics (often referred to as PV) is a simple and elegant method of using solar energy. PV devices (solar cells) are unique in that they convert incident solar radiation into electricity directly, without noise, pollution or the use of moving parts, making them a reliable and durable energy source. Solar cells are based on the same principles and materials that have revolutionized communications and computing technology.

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The expression “geothermal energy” literally means that it is the heat energy of the earth (“geo” means earth, “thermal” means heat). The main source of this energy is a constant stream of heat from the heated interior, directed toward the Earth’s surface. The Earth’s crust receives heat as a result of friction of the core, radioactive decay of elements (like thorium and uranium), and chemical reactions. The time constants of these processes are so large relative to the Earth’s existence that it is impossible to estimate whether its temperature is increasing or decreasing.

The reserves of geothermal energy are enormous. Geothermal energy in a number of countries (Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Mexico, New Zealand, Russia, USA, Japan) is widely used for heat supply and power generation. For example, in Iceland 26.5% of power generation is provided by geothermal energy.

In 2004, the total capacity of geothermal power plants in the world was about 9 million kW, and that of geothermal heat supply systems was about 20 million kW (thermal). According to forecasts, the capacity of geothermal power plants can be about 20 million kW, and electricity generation – 120 billion kWh.

Geothermal energy provides heat to Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland. As early as 1943, 32 boreholes were drilled to depths of between 440 and 2,400 m, taking water with temperatures between 60 and 130°C to the surface. Nine of these boreholes are still in operation today.

Among the Earth’s deep heat deposits, there are thermoanomalous zones of heat deposits, which have an increased geothermal gradient in water-saturated permeable rocks. Thus, manifestations of geothermal heat of practical importance are hot water and steam reserves in underground reservoirs at relatively shallow depths and geysers that come to the surface.

Geothermal waters are classified by temperature, acidity, salinity level, hardness.

The main indicator of the suitability of geothermal sources for use is their natural temperature, according to which they are divided into low-thermal waters with the temperature of 40-70°C; medium-thermal waters with the temperature of 70-100°C; high-thermal waters and steam with the temperature of 100-150°C; steam-hydrotherms and fluids with the temperature of over 150°C.

There are 19 geothermal power plants in the Valley of Geysers in the U.S. with a total capacity of 1,300 MW. The world’s most powerful geothermal power plant (50 MW) was also built in the U.S. – Heber geothermal power plant.

The greatest effect takes place at the combined schemes of using geothermal sources as a heat carrier for water heating and power generation at thermal power plants, which provides significant savings of fossil fuel and increases the efficiency of low-potential energy conversion. Such combined schemes allow the use of heat carriers with initial temperatures above 70-80°C to generate electricity.

Today 58 countries use heat from their geothermal resources not only for power generation but also directly as heat: for bath and pool heating 42%; for heating 23%; for heat pumps 12%; for greenhouse heating 9%; for water heating in fisheries 6%; for industry 5%; for other purposes 2%; for drying agricultural products, snow melting and air conditioning 1%.

In 2008, the installed capacity of power-generating geothermal plants worldwide was about 11 million kW, generating about 55 billion kWh.

According to various forecasts, the capacity of geothermal plants will increase to 40-70 million kWh by 2030.

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Today, everyone seems to understand the importance of preserving the environment, but the relationship between man and nature at the beginning of the third millennium is seen in part as a confrontation between two largely hostile worlds: the “natural world” and the “human world.

The famous Austrian biologist and Nobel Prize winner Konrad Lorenz, describing the fatal consequences of such a pernicious “philosophy,” wrote: “The daily life of so many people goes on among the dead works of human hands; they have lost the ability to understand living creations and communicate with them. This loss explains why humanity as a whole shows such vandalism to the world of wildlife surrounding us and sustaining our lives. Trying to restore the lost connection between humans and the rest of the living things that inhabit our planet is a very important and very worthy task. Ultimately, the success or failure of such attempts decides the question – will humanity lose itself with all living things on Earth or not? “. Therefore, the strategic task of eco-biotechnology and its integral component, bioenergetics, is seen in the search for ways to bring them closer together and mutually benefit from each other.

The first fundamental feature of bioenergetics is that all living organisms are thermodynamically open systems, which function only under the condition of a constant exchange of substance and energy with the environment. The thermodynamics of such systems differs significantly from classical thermodynamics. The basic concept of equilibrium states for classical thermodynamics is replaced by the concept of stationary states of dynamic equilibrium. Open systems are capable of self-organization and self-development. The second most important feature of bioenergetics is related to the fact that metabolic processes in cells occur in the absence of significant fluctuations in temperature, pressure and volume. Nature, unlike technology, could not afford the high temperatures, pressures and other conditions that take place in modern internal combustion engines and other thermal machines. The conversion of chemical bonding energy into useful biological work in an individual cell or organism as a whole occurs without the conversion of chemical energy into thermal energy.

It should be noted that electrochemical stages play a significant role in energy conversion processes in living organisms. The cumulative power of electrochemical processes occurring in the cells of all living organisms of the biosphere exceeds the global scale of technical use of electrochemical energy by many orders of magnitude. It is as if a hydrogen-oxygen fuel cell (FC) is built into a living cell. Just as in a TE the chemical energy of fuel is transformed into electrical energy, living nature also transforms the chemical energy of macroergic compounds first into electrical forms and then, in the process of oxidative phosphorylation, immediately preserves it into the energy of chemical bonds. Practical applications have already found TEs that use hydrogen as a fuel and oxygen as an oxidizer, with alkali or ion-exchange polymer as the electrolyte. The successes achieved to date in the development of TE are mainly related to chemistry, but it should be noted that there are other, in our opinion, more promising ways to solve this problem.

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Tidal energy has long been used by people by setting up tidal mills on the coasts of England, France, Spain, Russia, Canada, the USA and other countries. Such installations were carried out by forming a basin by damming small bays, where the mill wheels were located and operated at low tide. The diameters of the wheels were up to 6 m. In England a similar installation under the arches of London Bridge from 1580 pumped fresh water for water supply for 250 years.

A special feature of tidal power plants (TEP) is their use of naturally renewable energy of sea tides, the nature of which is associated with the tidal force arising from the gravitational interaction of the Earth with the Moon and the Sun. Only the horizontal component of the tidal force is of practical importance for the Earth’s water shell. Due to the proximity of the Moon to the Earth, the value of the tide under the influence of the Moon is 2.2 times greater than the solar tide.

On the coasts of seas and oceans, the semidiurnal tide is the most frequent, at which the maximum tidal wave comes twice during the lunar day (24 hours 50 minutes) (Fig. 2.25, a).

The value of the tide A is determined by the difference of the water level at the maximum rise and the minimum decrease during the period of the tide. The maximum deviation from the mean sea level is called the tidal amplitude, which is equal to 0.5 A.

The irregularity of tidal oscillations during the lunar month is characterized by changes in the tidal magnitude from A max (sysigia) to A mi n (quadrature).

The change of tide magnitude during the lunar month (29.5 days) is shown in Fig. 2.25, b.

The pattern of tide changes within a month, caused by the movements of the Moon and the Sun, remains practically the same for all lunar months of the year. The average value of the tide value for all the same-named days of a lunar month is also practically invariable in the annual and multiyear sections. The distinctive feature of the tidal energy is also the invariability of the mean monthly energy for any year.

The amplitudes and forms of tidal waves on different coasts of the World Ocean differ significantly, which is associated with such factors as depth, shoreline configuration, etc. Thus, maximum Amax tidal range of 19.5 m was observed in Canada in the Bay of Fundy on the Atlantic Ocean coast, 16.3 m – in England at the mouth of Severn River, 14.7 m – in the north of France, 11.0 m – in Russia in Penzhinski Bay of the Sea of Okhotsk.

Favorable natural conditions are necessary for creation of PES, which include: high tides (A > 3-5 m); the contour of the coastline (preferably with the formation of a bay), which allows separating the basin from the sea for PES operation with a minimum length and height of the damming dam, favorable geological conditions of its foundation.

General potential of possible use of tidal energy all over the world is roughly estimated as 1 billion kWt power, and about 2000 billion kWt/h power generation, including about 250 billion kWt/h in Russia.

Currently, 240 MW La Rance power plant (France) has been in operation in the world since 1967, 0.4 MW Kislogubskaya power plant (Russia) since 1968, 20 MW Annapolis power plant (Canada) since 1984, 5 small power plants in China with a total capacity of 4.3 MW, including 3 MW Jiangxian power plant built in 1985, a 254 MW Sihwa Lake power plant in South Korea is nearing completion.

Projects of large SPPs are under development: in England – Severn with 8.6 million kW capacity, in Canada – Camberland (1.15 million kW) and Kobekuid (4 million kW), in India – 7.4 million kW SPP in Cambay Bay, and in Russia – Mezenskaya (8 million kW) and Tugurskaya (3.6 million kW), which construction is scheduled to start till 2020. In prospect the possibility of creating the giant Penzhinskaya PES with the capacity of up to 87 million kW is being considered.

The most effective single-basin scheme with one-way and two-way operation is mainly used for PES. The structures of tidal power plants include the building of the PES, the culvert structure and the blind dam.

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Since very ancient times man has used the energy of water and wind, in addition to burning fossil fuels. Such energy, converted into mechanical energy, was used to operate various devices and appliances.

The source of kinetic energy of water and wind is solar energy. The flow of rivers and the movement of air masses are also caused by the Sun. That is, the network of water and wind energy is transformed energy. At the present stage of human development the kinetic energy of falling and flowing water is used to generate electricity. At the end of the twentieth century, hydroelectric power accounted for 21% of the world’s electricity production. In Russia, as of 1997, 19% of electricity production was from hydroelectric power plants. In Norway, electricity is produced entirely by hydropower.

Water energy – hydropower – is a renewable natural resource, the obvious advantage of which is that it does not pollute the environment. However, along with the positives, hydropower also has negative aspects.

The advantages of hydropower include the fact that many countries have a large number of sites for hydropower plants. The efficiency of hydroelectric power plants is very high, ranging from 85 to 95 percent. In addition, hydropower plants operate at full capacity 95% of the time. In comparison, thermal power plants operate 65% of the time and nuclear power plants 55% of the time; they are more often shut down for maintenance and repairs. Hydropower plants do not pollute the environment or the atmosphere. Hydropower plants have a much longer service life than thermal power plants and nuclear power plants. In addition, hydropower plants provide a fairly low cost of production and maintenance.

The disadvantage of hydropower is that the resources of the vast majority of industrialized countries are almost exhausted, and the increase in hydropower generation is carried out at the expense of small hydropower plants. In addition, transporting electricity over long distances will make it more expensive and wasteful. Another disadvantage of hydropower is that the construction of hydropower plants on lowland rivers with slow flow requires the construction of dams and the construction of large reservoirs, and this requires a large investment of capital. Reservoirs and dams provide an opportunity to control floods, as well as to regulate their flow, their construction entails a number of problems. The consequence of the construction of large dams and reservoirs is the flooding of vast areas, which results in withdrawal of the most fertile land above the dam from the agricultural sector. And the absence of floods leads to a decrease in the fertility of land below the dam. In addition, this results in the destruction of wildlife habitat. Historically, river banks are the most populated areas. The construction of reservoirs results in the relocation of large numbers of people and the displacement of cultural monuments where possible. When dams are built, the natural migration routes of many species of organisms are blocked. Organic matter left at the bottom of reservoirs contributes to eutrophication of water, enriching it with biogens. Evaporation of water from a large surface area has an impact on the climate of territories adjacent to the reservoir. Another problem with the construction of reservoirs is the danger of provoking seismic events as a result of the concentration of large masses of water on the surface of the earth. The regulation of rivers results in the reduction of some species of living organisms and the population explosion of others. For example, the cessation of Nile spills as a result of the construction of the Aswan Dam caused an increase in the population of snails, which infect people with schistosomiasis.

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