Loosely speaking, these terms can refer to any type of energy produced by the Sun. Strictly speaking, solar energy is the correct term for the actual energy; solar power refers only to the potential of the Sun to produce energy. Practically speaking, both terms refer to energy collected or generated from solar radiation. Solar radiation includes both visible and nonvisible radiation. Infrared light from the sun, which is not visible to the naked eye, is a substantial contributor to the heat energy we receive from the Sun.

Solar energy can be generated using a wide variety of methods ranging from simple water recirculating systems used to heat homes and commercial offices to sophisticated networks of solar collector cells that produce enough energy to supply small cities.

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