Solar energy is a renewable source of power that uses the sun`s rays to produce electricity. It can help us become more energy-independent and secure globally.

Solar power has become more affordable and more accessible as the price of solar panels has fallen over the years. Solar energy is made even more affordable by financial incentives offered by some states.

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Photovoltaics

Photovoltaics (often shortened to PV) are solar cells that convert sunlight directly into electricity. The photovoltaic effect is the process that gave them their name. Since 1954, they have been used to power computers, watches, and satellites.

Photovoltaic systems consist of solar panels that absorb sunlight and convert it into electricity. A solar inverter changes the electric current from DC or AC and other components. They can range in size from a small roof-top or building-integrated installation to large utility-scale power stations of hundreds of megawatts.

Researchers at NREL and other laboratories around the world are working to develop solar photovoltaics that will be durable, reliable and low-cost for years to come. They are also working to find ways to integrate solar power into the grid without causing disruptions in the careful balance between energy supply and demand. These goals are designed to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels, and mitigate climate change.

Solar Thermal

Solar thermal energy is a technology for harnessing the sun`s energy for heating water or air for residential and commercial use. It is a type of renewable energy that is different from photovoltaics, which converts solar energy into electricity.

There are many types of solar thermal technology, including low-temperature (flat plate), collectors for pool heating and boiler water preheating, and medium and high temperature collectors that concentrate the sun using lenses or mirrors to generate electric power.

Concentrating solar thermal power (CSP) technology uses thousands of mirrors to focus the sun`s rays on a heat receiver. The heat is then converted to steam, which drives standard turbines to produce electricity.

Solar thermal power plants have a unique capability to store the generated heat during the day, which can help them produce electricity when there is insufficient sunlight. This is a key factor in making solar thermal an essential part of a carbon-neutral energy system.

Solar Water Heating

Solar water heating systems use the sun`s energy to heat potable water, reducing fuel costs and pollution. They can serve up to 80% of a building`s hot water needs, with minimal operation and maintenance (O&M) expense.

A solar water heater can reduce fossil fuel usage by up to 50% compared to a conventional gas or electric water heater. It also cuts down on greenhouse gas emissions, which can cause a variety of problems for the environment, such as acid rain and air pollution.

When designed correctly, solar water heating systems can be economically cost-effective. Optimizing the tilt of the collector can maximize summer solar gains and minimize winter losses.

Solar Electricity

The Sun`s energy, solar power, is a form of renewable and green energy. You can use it for everything from electricity generation to water treatment.

There are three main ways to harness the sun`s energy for use in our daily lives: Photovoltaic (PV), solar thermal, and concentrated solar power (CSP). Solar PV is a method that converts sunlight directly into electricity. It can be used on rooftops and ground-mounted arrays.

Concentrated solar power uses mirrors and lenses to reflect sunlight and concentrate it into a very small beam. This heat can then be used to make steam, which turns a turbine and powers an electricity generator.

Solar electric systems can be an attractive way to power a home, especially when combined with a battery system that provides backup during non-daylight hours. They also save money on power bills.