Photovoltaics
Solar energy is the energy in the radiation from the Sun. It can be captured by photovoltaic devices to generate electricity directly from sunlight.
The electromagnetic radiation from the Sun ranges from the shortest waves (which are gamma rays) to the longest waves (which are radio waves).
Visible light has a wavelength from 400 to 770 nanometres, and it behaves as both a wave and a particle. Electromagnetic radiation in this range is known as a photon. When photions strike a photovoltaic cell they generate electricity.
This means that panels of photovoltaic cells can generate sufficient electricity from sunlight to heat water, space heating, charging batteries and to power a multitude of devices such as traffic signals, advertising signs, vehicles and even airplanes!
Photovoltaic projects in the UK
The CIS Tower in Manchester is the largest photovoltaics project in the UK. The project generates an estimated 180,000 Kwh per year, which is sufficient to meet the electricity needs for 70 homes. The generated electricity is fed into the National grid. source: www.solarcentury.co.uk
References
(REA) The Renewable Energy Association
(RFA) Renewable Transport Fuel Obligation