Solar power is the conversion of sunlight into electricity either directly using photovoltaics (PV), or indirectly using concentrated solar power (CSP). Photovoltaic cells convert light into an electric current using the photovoltaic effect1. Concentrated solar power systems use lenses or mirrors and tracking systems to focus a large area of sunlight into a small beam.

Solar energy has many advantages. It is a renewable source of energy that does not produce greenhouse gases or other pollutants. It can be used in remote locations where other sources of electricity are not available. It can also be used to heat water for domestic use.