END-USES

WHAT ARE THE ENERGY END-USES FOR SOLAR? 

Once harnessed and converted, there are many uses of solar energy limited only by the technology available.

Photovoltaic Applications:

  • Solar Farms
  • Remote Locations
  • Stand-alone Power
  • Power in Space
  • Building-Related Needs
  • Military Uses
  • Transportation[1]

The following is a partial listing of end-uses for solar energy, according to application:

INDUSTRIAL 

In 2019, the industrial sector accounted for 35% of total U.S. end-use energy consumption and 32% of total U.S. energy consumption.

  • Water desalination
  • Enhanced oil recovery
  • Food processing
  • Chemical production
  • Mineral processing[2]

 

TRANSPORTATION 

  • Plug-in electric vehicles (PEVs)
  • PV electricity for electrolysis in hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs)
  • PV used in the electrification of rail
  • Increased reliability for airport microgrids
  • Maritime electrofuels made from PV-based hydrogen[3]

COMMERCIAL/RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS 

  • Heating and cooling
  • Water heating
  • Electricity[4]

 Updated by Jennifer Ostromecki, November 2023