solar energy

American  

[soh-ler en-er-jee] / ˈsoʊ lər ˈɛn ər dʒi /

noun

1. energy derived from the sun in the form of solar radiation.

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solar energy British  

noun

1. energy obtained from solar power

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solar energy Scientific  

1. The radiant energy emitted by the Sun.

2. 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.

3. See also solar cell

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solar energy Cultural  

1. The energy the Earth receives from the sun, primarily as visible light and other forms of electromagnetic radiation. (See renewable resource.)

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Discover More

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

This behavior is expected as the comet receives less solar energy.

From Science Daily • Jun. 4, 2026

In March, Nasa announced a $20 billion programme to construct a permanent base powered by nuclear and solar energy at the Moon's south pole by 2032.

From BBC • May 26, 2026

In that case, Adani was accused of having participated in an estimated $250 million scheme to bribe Indian officials for lucrative solar energy supply contracts.

From Barron's • May 18, 2026

The Justice Department alleged the defendants agreed to pay more than $250 million in bribes to Indian officials in order to win lucrative solar energy contracts from the Indian government.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 18, 2026

The plant provide* power to the entire city, using a combination of wind, water, and solar energy.

From "Insurgent" by Veronica Roth

Related Words

• solar power
• solar radiation