Solar Power

• Two main types of solar power, thermal and photovoltaic

• Solar thermal is when solar radiation is used to directly heat materials that can then use the heat to heat up water, air, or wall.

• Solar photovoltaic is when solar radiation is used to make energy via electricity, as seen by my model on the left.

• Conversion efficiency can be calculated by the formula power out / solar power in.

• Most methods of collecting solar power require elevation and/or large, open areas to maximize collection.