solar energy
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solar energy
Energy obtained from the radiation of the sun. It can be converted into heat or electric power using solar technology.
Immer mehr Haushalte nutzen Sonnenenergie, um ihre Stromkosten zu senken.
More and more households are using solar energy to lower their electricity costs.
This word is made up of 'die Sonne' (the sun), the linking element '-n-', and 'die Energie' (energy). So it literally means 'energy from the sun.'
Die Nutzung von Sonnenenergie wird staatlich gefördert.
The use of solar energy is subsidized by the government.
The word element 'Sonnen-' is used for many terms in the field of solar technology. Examples include 'der Sonnenkollektor' (solar collector), 'der Sonnenstrom' (solar electricity), or 'die Sonnenwärme' (solar heat).
Unser Haus wird mit Sonnenwärme geheizt.
Our house is heated with solar heat.
In connection with 'Sonnenenergie' (solar energy), the verbs 'nutzen' (to use), 'gewinnen' (to obtain), 'erzeugen' (to generate), and 'speichern' (to store) are often used.
Mit Solaranlagen auf dem Dach kann man Sonnenenergie gewinnen.
With solar panels on the roof, you can obtain solar energy.
photovoltaics
'die Photovoltaik' and 'die Sonnenenergie' both have to do with energy from the sun. 'Sonnenenergie' is the more general term for energy obtained from solar radiation. It can be used to produce electricity or heat. 'Photovoltaik' is a specific technology: solar cells convert sunlight directly into electrical current. Learners may confuse the words because you often hear both in connection with solar panel systems. When it is generally about energy from the sun, 'Sonnenenergie' fits. When it is specifically about electricity from solar cells, 'Photovoltaik' is more precise.
Sonnenenergie kann im Haus für Strom und warmes Wasser genutzt werden.
Solar energy can be used in the house for electricity and hot water.
Auf dem Dach der Schule wird Photovoltaik genutzt, um Strom zu erzeugen.
Photovoltaics is used on the roof of the school to generate electricity.