Compared to photovoltaic panels, which convert sunlight directly into electricity, solar thermal collectors are specialized in heat production. Their efficiency and diverse applications have made them a popular choice for improving energy efficiency and reducing dependence on fossil. . People use solar thermal energy for many purposes, including heating water, air, and the interior of buildings and generating electricity. Passive solar space heating is when the sun shines through the windows. . Solar Thermal Energy captures and uses the sun's heat for various applications like water heating, space heating, and electricity generation through concentrated solar power (CSP) systems. Professor of Engineering, Pennsylvania State University.
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