Solar
Australia's largest potential energy source
Solar energy comes from the sun and is Australia's largest potential energy source. There are two types of solar energy: heat and light.
'Thermal collectors' collect heat, as in a solar heated swimming pool system. Photovoltaic (PV) cells collect light, which is used to make the electrons in the cells flow – hence producing electricity.
Panels of PV cells are often seen on household roofs, and are used to provide electricity for hot water systems or other household appliances. In some cases, any excess is fed back into the electricity grid.
Country Energy has solar farms at the Western Plains Zoo and in Queanbeyan.