Solar Energy

Solar energy is the use of radiant light and heat emitted from the Sun that is converted into electrical energy to provide power to heat water, light homes, run businesses and industry. Solar energy is most commonly converted using photovoltaic cells that convert sunlight directly into pure energy. The simplest PV cells operate watches and calculators, while more advanced systems are used to power houses or as part of the energy generation facilities.

Passive solar heating is a process incorporated into building design that uses the suns power to minimize the need for heating or lighting. A common example of this is a greenhouse, used in colder climates to trap part of the sun's heat in a contained space. The use of large windows on the southern side of a home in Northern America and Europe allow much more sunlight to enter a home and reduce the amount of lighting and heating required for a home, while creating a more enjoyable living space.

The opposite of this is also the case. Many homes in Mexico, Southern Europe and across the Middle East make good use of internal courtyards and water features. This not only keeps out the heat of the midday sun, but creates a natural wind tunnel that pulls cooler air through the internal rooms in the building. For more information about using the Sun to harness renewable energy and other types of renewable energy sources, look at our green energy section.