solar energy
Americannoun
noun
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The radiant energy emitted by the Sun.
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Energy derived from the Sun's radiation. Passive solar energy can be exploited through architectural design, as by positioning windows to allow sunlight to enter and help heat a space. Active solar energy involves the conversion of sunlight to electrical energy, especially in solar (photovoltaic) cells.
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See also solar cell
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The term solar energy often refers to processes that use this energy to generate heat or electricity for human use. (See solar cells.)
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The company aspires to launch data centers in space, powered by solar energy.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 13, 2026
In 2011, a solar energy manufacturer named Solyndra declared bankruptcy.
From Slate ● Jul. 27, 2026
Even so, the impact of high temperatures on solar energy in Great Britain is visible in data he and his colleagues have analysed and shared with the BBC.
From BBC ● Jul. 1, 2026
This behavior is expected as the comet receives less solar energy.
From Science Daily ● Jun. 4, 2026
To Joel, sustainable organic farming means using this free solar energy instead of fossil fuel energy.
From "The Omnivore's Dilemma" by Michael Pollan
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Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.