Very often there is confusion about the various methods used to harness solar energy. Energy from the sun can be categorized in two ways: (1) in the form of heat (or thermal energy), and (2) in the form of light energy. Solar thermal technologies uses the solar heat energy to heat substances (such as water or air) for applications such as space heating, pool heating and water heating for homes and businesses. There are a variety of products on the market that uses solar thermal energy. Often the products used for this application are called solar thermal collectors and can be mounted on the roof of a building or in some other sunny location. The solar heat can also be used to produce electricity on a large utility-scale by converting the solar energy into mechanical energy.
So, fossil fuels is actually solar energy stored millions and millions of years ago. Indirectly, the sun or other are responsible for all our energy. Even nuclear energy comes from a star because the uranium atomsused in nuclear energy were created in the fury of a nova - a star exploding. Let's look at ways in which we can use the solar energy.
General Info on Solar Energy
Solar energy is actually the source of most all energy on earth. Other forms of energy are ultimately conversions from solar energy. [Learn More]
Photovoltaic Systems, Solar Cells
Photovoltaic systems are designed to produce electricity directly from sunlight. [Learn More]
Solar Heating and Cooling
Using solar energy to heat buildings. The hot water created by a solar system can be used for domestic hot water or space heating. Hot air solar systems are primarily used for space heating.
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Solar Hot Water
Solar water heating or solar hot water is water heated by the use of solar energy. [Learn More]
Solar Electricity With Solar Steam
Using the sun's heat to produce electricity by turning water into steam. Steam turbines are used to generate electricity. [Learn More]
Passive Solar Daylighting
Using solar energy to light buildings.
Solar Process Space Heating and Cooling
Industrial and commercial uses of the sun's heat.