Electricity generation

Solar energy does not spin a generator.

There are two types of solar energy: heat and light. There are two ways of collecting solar energy.

1. 'Collect' or absorb heat from the sun to heat fluid, usually water.

   Thermal collectors are used for this process, and can be commonly found on the roof of homes as part of solar hot water systems.

2. Use sunlight to make electricity. Solar collectors used for this process are called photovoltaic (PV) cells.

   When the sun hits the PV cell, the little particles of light excite the electrons in the cell, and cause them to flow, generating electricity.

More information
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