What Is Solar Energy?

Solar energy panels harness the sun's energy for practical ends such as producing electricity or heating water. These technologies can actually be traced back to the early Greeks, Native Americans and Chinese, who heated their buildings by orienting them toward the sun.

The sun is our most powerful energy source. Made of hydrogen gas, it converts the hydrogen into helium and as a result nuclear energy waves are released into space.

When this energy arrives at Earth, it drives the climate and supports virtually all life.

Now, the most common way to use this energy is via a solar panel.

A solar photovoltaic energy (solar pv) panel converts sunlight into heat to generate electricity. A solar heating collector heats water.

Solar photovoltaic energy

These solar cells are usually made out of silicon. When sunlight hits a solar cell it knocks free electrons into a electrical current.

Solar water heating

When the sun shines, the water in the pipe is heated and this hot water can then be stored in a tank underneath the house, saving you money on your heating bills.

Useful articles

For a more in-depth summary go to what is solar energy - a detailed analysis.

Click on our solar power gadgets for great gift ideas.

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