The main types of solar energy technologies are:
- Photovoltaic (PV) systems convert sunlight directly to electricity by means of PV cells made of semiconductor materials.
- Concentrating solar power (CSP) systems concentrate the sun’s energy using reflective devices such as troughs or mirror panels to produce heat that is then used to generate electricity.
- Solar water heating systems contain a solar collector that faces the sun and either heats water directly or heats a “working fluid” that, in turn, is used to heat water.
- Transpired solar collectors, or “solar walls” use solar energy to preheat ventilation air for a building.