Solar thermal energy (STE)[1] is a technology for harnessing solar energy for thermal energy (heat). Solar thermal collectors are classified by the USA Energy Information Administration as low-, medium-, or high-temperature collectors. Low temperature collectors are flat plates generally used to heat swimming pools. Medium-temperature collectors are also usually flat plates but are used for heating water or air for residential and commercial use. High temperature collectors concentrate sunlight using mirrors or lenses and are generally used for electric power production. STE is different from photovoltaics, which convert solar energy directly into electricity. While only 600 megawatts of solar thermal power is up and running worldwide in October 2009 according to Dr David Mills of Ausra, another 400 megawatts is under construction and there are 14,000 megawatts of the more serious concentrating solar thermal (CST) projects being developed.[2]


Template:Courseinprogress

  1. "It's solar power's time to shine". MSN Money. Retrieved 2008-06-05.
  2. Manning, Paddy (10 October 2009). "With green power comes great responsibility". Sydney Morning Herald. Retrieved 2009-10-12.
Cookies help us deliver our services. By using our services, you agree to our use of cookies.