Solar energy is the radiant energy from the Sun 's light and heat, which can be harnessed using a range of technologies such as solar electricity, solar thermal energy (including solar water heating) and solar architecture. Concentrated. Solar cell When sunlight strikes a solar cell, an electron is freed by the photoelectric effect. The two dissimilar semiconductors possess a natural difference in electric potential (voltage), which causes the electrons to flow through the external circuit, supplying power to the load. About 51% of the sun's energy reaches Earth's atmosphere. There are two main technologies for solar power generation: solar photovoltaics and solar. This section covers the fundamentals—how solar energy works, where it comes from, and why it's become one of the most important energy sources in the world. Simple, clear answers to get you started.
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