Solar Energy

This passage describes the various uses for solar energy.

Lexile Level: 1310L

Categories: Science & Technology


As energy costs rise, more and more consumers seek alternative means to meet their heating and cooking needs. One alternative energy source that is growing in popularity is solar energy, which harnesses the natural radiation of the sun and directs it to everyday needs. Several different methods can be used to capture solar energy. Passive solar energy designs utilize large windows and solar absorbent building materials that collect the sun's energy and release it into the home environment without any mechanical assistance. Photovoltaic systems, on the other hand, utilize semi-conducting cells that convert sunlight into electricity. The resulting electricity can then be used to power a variety of household appliances and lighting sources. Solar water systems use sun exposure to heat large quantities of water that can then be routed through piping throughout a structure to provide heat. Heated water can also run directly to a plumbing system to provide hot showers and baths. It is likely that solar energy methods will continue to evolve to provide increasingly effective means for turning sunlight into energy.


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