The idea of utilizing the power of the sun is thousands of years old. Ancient Romans and Greeks used architecture designed to make use of the sun’s rays to light and heat buildings. The simple practice of what we now refer to as passive-solar design helps create highly efficient buildings that stay warmer in the winter, cooler in the summer, and utilize natural light for indoor lighting.

Another potential application of solar energy is through the use of photovoltaic (PV) cells. PV cells convert the sun's radiation into electricity through the use of silicon-based PV cells. This technology is most commonly utilized to power satellites, calculators, and highway signs, and is becoming more common in helping to power homes and businesses. PV cells have become more efficient over the years, and research laboratories such as the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (right here in Golden, Colorado) are constantly working on making this technology even more efficient and affordable to businesses and individuals.

Denver gets on average over 300 days of sun a year, and much of Colorado is in high potential solar energy areas. To learn more about specific solar technologies, visit one of CEC's partner groups, the Colorado Renewable Energy Society.