What are the different types of solar technologies?
• Photovoltaics: Photovoltaic solar cells, which directly convert sunlight into electricity, are made of semiconductor materials. This can include very simple cells that power calculators and watches and complex systems that can light houses. • Passive solar heating: Buildings designed for passive solar and daylighting combine building materials that absorb and slowly release the sun’s heat with design features such as large south-facing windows. No mechanical means are employed. • Concentrating solar power: This technology uses reflective materials such as mirrors to concentrate the sun’s energy and convert it into electricity. • Solar hot water and space heating and cooling: Solar collectors use the sun to heat water or a heat-transfer fluid which is stored and used for domestic hot water heating and hydronic space heating.
