Difference between revisions of "Solar Farms in the California Central Coast Region"

Revision as of 22:56, 5 April 2017

Topaz Solar Farm in San Luis Obispo County. Image: [1]

This page discusses solar farms in the central coast region.

Summary

Technology and design

Movement of electrons in a photovoltaic cell. Image: [2]

Photovoltaic technology

Solar panels or arrays that converts solar energy directly into electricity implement photovoltaic (PV) technology.

Within each solar panel and array are small units of semiconductor material called PV cells. When sunlight strikes the surface of a PV cell, some photons are absorbed by the semiconductor material^[1]. The photons transfer energy into the atoms of the semiconductor material and triggers the release of electrons^[2]. These electrons move to the front surface of the PV cell and create an electrical imbalance, with the surface having a more negative charge than the bottom. The imbalance results in a voltage potential similar to the positive and negative ends of a battery.^[3] Connecting electrical conductors to the positive and sides of the PV cell creates an electric current and generates electricity^[4].

All existing and proposed solar farms in the central coast use or plant to implement PV technology.

Fixed panels vs tracking panels

Efficiency

Ground mounting

Locations in the Central Coast Region

Existing

Topaz

Proposed

Impacts

Economic

Scenic

Environmental Concerns

Endangered and threatened wildlife

Land Development

References

1. ↑ U.S. Energy Information Administration
2. ↑ Alternate Energy Tutorials
3. ↑ U.S. Energy Information Administration
4. ↑ NASA

Links

• California's Central Coast Region
• Monterey County

Disclaimer

This page may contain student work completed as part of assigned coursework. It may not be accurate. It does not necessary reflect the opinion or policy of [CSUMB], its staff, or students.