Project Sol

ENERGY FOR THE FUTURE: Solar Electricity

Some renewable energy technologies harvest solar radiation in order to generate electrical energy.

Solar thermal technology uses mirrors to concentrate the sun's heat. The heat is used to boil water which drives a steam turbine. Solar radiation can also be used to heat a gas which drives a piston. The kinetic energy of the moving turbine or piston is then converted into electrical energy. Solar thermal energy is a large scale application, used by a power plant in place of nuclear or fossil fuels.

Photovoltaic technology uses devices called solar cells which can change light energy directly into electrical energy. This technology is used in small applications like calculators and wrist-watches; in medium-sized arrays that power highway lighting, recreational vehicles, space stations and other electrical systems not connected to power lines, and in large arrays owned and operated by power companies.

Now learn more about electrical energy or take a tour through a photovoltaic system.
But before you click, remember: That muscle you're using is powered by the sun.

Cabin photo: Altair Energy/U.S. Department of Energy