Imagine a blanket made from solar panels, not fabric. large scale solar farms are built in this way. As humanity uses renewable resources more, they’re becoming a popular solution.

In these massive arrays, solar cells cover acres and convert sunlight directly to electricity. This process is known as photovoltaics technology. It has seen dramatic advancements in both efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.

What is the reason for this massive shift to large scale? Scale reduces costs and increases effectiveness. Photovoltaics can be installed on huge rooftops or vast expanses of land to generate massive amounts of energy. This increase in efficiency will reduce the dependence on fossil-fuels, as well as greenhouse gas emission.

Put yourself in the position of a village that depends on a large solar farm for electricity. Sunrise and sunset are predictable, which makes power generation easier. What happens when there are clouds or the night falls. The art of energy-storage strategies, such as battery technology and other technologies are used to ensure a continual power supply.

Solar panels are not simply thrown on the ground. It is a delicate dance between location scouting (including ecological assessments) and integration with local residents. In order to decide where these solar farm should be located, you need to balance a number of factors. Sites require sufficient sunlight, close proximity to electricity grids, as well as minimal ecological disruption.

Ironically, it’s quite delightful to have the sun power our daily life. After all, that star is what keeps us alive on Earth. Imagine hospitals, schools and other institutions being powered entirely by the sun. It is almost poetic. Here is where solar power at large scales comes to the fore, both as a tool and as an important community member. Many large-scale projects are on land leased to farmers who receive a steady income. They may also be located in areas that boost local employment and tax revenues.

The technology itself has undergone a dramatic transformation. Bifacial solar panels that catch sunlight on both sides, solar tracking system that follows the sun throughout the day, and innovation in materials push what’s possible. Systems are becoming more efficient and less intrusive.

With great power — literally — comes great responsibilities. Massive solar farms require massive resources. Land use, community relations, and regulatory compliance are all factors that require careful planning. The environment is a key consideration when setting up such farms. This includes protecting native species, conserving natural habitats, and making sure the projects don’t harm local ecology.

It used to be that the prospect of completely converting communities over to solar power was a mere speck in the distance. Not any longer. The feasibility and functionality of this source are being demonstrated in various cities and suburbs.

Take a village which was formerly dependent on diesel engines. When you flip the switch, you can see not only the lights come on, but the cleaner air and lower bills. It’s an impressive demonstration of impact on the local level.