Solar power is the energy that is captured from sunlight and is most often used at present for electricity and heat. Solar panels or photovoltaic cells convert sunlight directly into high quality electricity which can either be stored in batteries or fed into an electric utility grid.

There are less technological ways of harnessing solar energy such as the use of its passive form. Solar energy can be utilized with the proper design techniques of a home or building like orientation, windows, insulation and ventilation which can allow for optimal heating and cooling. The very same engineering techniques can likewise be used for water heating, solar ovens and solar chimneys, among others.