Solar Technologies
There are three primary technologies by which solar energy is harnessed: photovoltaics (PV), which directly convert light to electricity; concentrating solar power (CSP), which uses heat from the sun (thermal energy) to drive utility-scale, electric turbines; and solar heating and cooling (SHC) systems, which collect thermal energy to provide hot water and air heating or conditioning.
Photovoltaics
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Learn MoreConcentrating Solar Power
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America Exceeds Five Million Solar Installations Nationwide
WASHINGTON, D.C. — The United States has officially exceeded five million solar installations, marking a significant achievement in the nation's clean energy transition. This milestone comes just eight years after the U.S. reached one million installations in 2016 — a milestone that took 40 years to achieve following the first grid-connected solar installation in 1973.
The Solar Century: Landmark Moments in the History of Solar Energy
The history of solar energy is an American success story. Since the creation of the first silicon solar cell 70 years ago, solar leaders have been innovating, improving efficiency, lowering costs, and growing this American-born technology into an essential part of our nation’s energy system.
Harvesting Sunshine: Solar is America’s Newest Cash Crop
For generations, America’s farmers have used the sun to provide for their communities and support the growth of the country. Today, with the help of solar and storage technologies, agricultural communities are delivering both the food that powers our bodies and the clean energy that powers our economy.