solar energy
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solar energy
Energy obtained from the sun's radiation. It is often converted into electricity with the help of solar cells.
Unser Hausdach ist mit Modulen zur Gewinnung von Solarenergie ausgestattet.
Our house roof is equipped with panels for generating solar energy.
The word is made up of 'solar' (derived from the Latin word 'sol' for sun) and 'Energie' (energy). So the meaning is literally 'Sonnenenergie' (sun energy/solar energy).
Die Forschung an effizienterer Solarenergie schreitet schnell voran.
Research into more efficient solar energy is progressing quickly.
The component 'Solar-' (solar) is used for many words connected with solar energy. When you see 'Solar-', it is usually about the sun, for example in 'Solarzelle' (solar cell), 'Solaranlage' (solar power system), or 'Solarpanel' (solar panel).
Eine neue Solaranlage auf dem Dach kann die Stromrechnung deutlich senken.
A new solar power system on the roof can significantly reduce the electricity bill.
Common verbs used with 'Solarenergie' (solar energy) are 'nutzen' (to use), 'gewinnen' (to obtain/generate), 'erzeugen' (to produce), and 'speichern' (to store). People also often say that they 'auf Solarenergie umstellt' (switch to solar energy).
Immer mehr Haushalte nutzen Solarenergie zur Stromerzeugung.
More and more households are using solar energy to generate electricity.
photovoltaics
Both words relate to the use of solar radiation. “Die Photovoltaik” refers to the technology that converts sunlight directly into electricity, while “die Solarenergie” refers to the energy obtained from it. When talking about systems and conversion, “Photovoltaik” is the right choice; when talking about the energy source, “Solarenergie” is the right choice.
Die Solarenergie vom Hausdach liefert der Familie sauberen Strom.
The solar energy from the roof provides the family with clean electricity.
Die Photovoltaik auf dem Hausdach wandelt Sonnenlicht direkt in elektrischen Strom um.
The photovoltaic system on the roof converts sunlight directly into electricity.
