Solar energy can be applied in many ways, including to:

• generate electricity using photovoltaic solar cells
• generate electricity using Space Solar Power Satellite in GEO and beaming it down via microwaves
• generate electricity using concentrated solar power
• generate electricity by heating trapped air which rotates turbines in a Solar updraft tower.
• heat buildings, directly. Careful positioning of windows and use of brises soleil can maximise inflow of light at the times it is most needed, heating the building while preventing overheating during midday and summer.
• heat foodstuffs, through solar ovens.
• heat water for domestic consumption and heating using rooftop solar panels.
• heat and cool air through use of solar chimneys.