It is an important source of renewable energy and its technologies are broadly characterized as either passive solar or active solar depending on the way they capture and distribute solar energy or convert it into solar power. Active solar techniques include the use of photovoltaic systems, concentrated solar power and solar water heating to harness the energy. Passive solar techniques include orienting a building to the Sun, selecting materials with favorable thermal mass or light dispersing properties, and designing spaces that naturally circulate air.
Is there an answer to this question (If it cannot be answered, say "unanswerable"): What are some active solar techniques used to harness solar energy?
photovoltaic systems, concentrated solar power and solar water heating