PV Gap

Naomi Said:

Types of solar energy?

We Answered:

One way to categorize solar energy is by how it is converted into useful forms. There are two types in this category: Passive Solar Energy and Active Solar Energy.

Passive Solar Energy doesn't use mechanical means to collect, store, or distribute the solar energy. For example, a thermosyphon (solar water heater) will use natural convection to circulate the water through the system.

Active Solar Energy uses mechanical devices to collect, store, and/or distribute the solar energy. For example, active solar water heaters use pumps to circulate the water or heat-transfer fluid in the system.

A second way to categorize solar energy is by the type of energy the system will produce. There are two types in this category: Solar Electricity and Solar Thermal.

Solar Electricity is produced using photovoltaic panels. PV panels produce an electric current when light hits them. A solar electric system captures this electricity and transfers it to your homes electric system.

Solar Thermal uses solar collectors to generate heat which can be used for solar space heating, interior solar water heating, or solar pool heating.