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So, how does solar energy work? Solar energy can be direct or indirect. The way solar energy works can be classified into two methods. The first is solar thermal and the second is photovoltaic. Both methods make the use of solar panels.
Solar Thermal:
This method uses the energy from the sun directly to generate heat. Solar panels are used to collect heat from the sun, which is then transferred for heating water and heating a building. The panels are positioned in such a way that they absorb the maximum amount of heat from the sun. There is a tubing that circulates water around the panel, the water gets hot because of heat and can be then used for heating the building or the hot water itself can be used. The tubing is known solar thermal collectors.
Photovoltaic:
This method converts the light from the sun into electricity. The photovoltaic cells used to capture the solar energy are made from silicon-based material. Unlike solar thermal collectors, photovoltaic cells absorb the light and not the heat. Many of these cells are combined to form a solar panel and the more solar energy you, the more panels will be required. The solar energy excites the electrons in the photovoltaic cells resulting in the production of electricity. This electricity is in the form of direct current (DC); the DC is then converted to alternating current (AC) by passing it through an inverter and can be used to power household appliances.
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Nearly all of us that solar energy is good and helps to keep the environment clean. However, very few of us understand why solar energy is good. Here is a list of solar energy advantages and disadvantages which will enable you to under the good and bad about it so that you can then see whether you would like to use solar energy for your homes. 
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