SOLAR ENERGY AND POSSIBILITIES OF ITS USAGE

This paper represents ways to produce electric power and heat by means of solar radiation. It describes the advantages and disadvantages of using solar energy in modern conditions, showing examples of solar energy applications in various manufacturing branches and transport. Solar energy is considered a renewable resource that can potentially be ecologically clean, producing no hazardous wastes. This overview indicates that solar power is widely used, especially in areas where other energy sources are scarce, making it economically viable due to the abundance of solar radiation. Moreover, the theoretical safety of solar energy for the environment is discussed, even though the manufacturing of photovoltaic cells involves harmful substances. Potential climate impacts due to the total implementation of solar power are briefly addressed, but current methods of usage suggest a low likelihood of significant negative effects. Challenges related to land use for solar installations are mitigated by solar aerostat power stations. The dependence of solar energy flow on latitude and climate varies significantly, and issues like the intermittent nature of solar power and high costs of photovoltaic cells present ongoing challenges, though technology advancements are leading to declining prices. The paper emphasizes the promise of solar energy as a sustainable power source.