Learn About Solar Energy

Solar Energy is the radiant light (Solar Radiation) and heat from the Sun that is harnessed using several types of technologies such as: solar heating, photovoltaics, solar thermal energy, solar architecture, molten salt power plants and artificial photosynthesis.

Solar Energy is one of the cleanest and abundant energy sources across the globe, and throughout the United States. The potential for using solar energy in long-term applications proves to be more sustainable, and yields a much higher availability than all other sources of energy. This includes both renewable and reserve-based energy forms that may be depleted with ongoing use.

Learn About Solar Energy

Understanding Solar Radiation

The Photovoltaic Effect

History of Solar Energy

How Solar Cells Work

Learn Grid-Tie Systems

Learn Off-Grid Systems

*Solar Energy Availability and Potential across the globe

Solar Power is the utilization of the sun’s energy into two known types of solar energy systems: Solar Photovoltaic and Solar Thermal. Solar Power generation occurs when solar radiation or Ultra-Violet light (UV Rays) are converted from sunlight into electricity. This happens by Photovoltaic cells converting light into an electric current via the “Photovoltaic Effect”.

Solar Energy is classified as a form of ‘Renewable Energy”. It is also known as Green Energy, or Alternative Energy.

Solar Photovoltaic systems obtain and convert solar radiation into electricity through multiple methods. The most common and well-known approach is using Silicon via Solar Panels. The Solar panels generate an electrical current when light shines upon it, (primarily sunlight).

Solar Thermal Systems work by storing heat from the sun that can be used for a variety of purposes. Many different approaches can be employed here, including active systems, such as solar hot water heaters, and passive systems, in which the design results in a building that automatically stores and utilizes solar energy.

<< Summary of the Sun

Understanding Solar Radiation >>