This is the first of two articles that will focus on solar pumping. We start with a review of solar energy, followed by a description of the various methods of converting solar energy.
Solar energy is one of the free benefits that come with residence on planet Earth. There is enough solar energy falling on the surface of the earth to meet our energy needs forever. You and I have enough solar energy falling on our rooftops - provided they are not in the shade of a large maple tree - to heat and cool our homes, and to provide our electricity. The problem is in converting this energy into a form we can use - heat or electricity.