Solar Power

Solar power is energy that comes from the sun. The sun gives off light and heat every day. People can catch this energy and turn it into electricity. We use special panels called solar panels to do this. Solar power is clean and does not pollute the air. It helps keep our planet healthy.

How Solar Panels Work

Solar panels are flat and shiny. They are made of many small parts called cells. When sunlight hits the cells, they make electricity. The electricity can power lights, TVs, and even cars. People put solar panels on roofs and in big open fields.

Huge rows of shiny mirrors catch sunlight to make electricity.
Huge rows of shiny mirrors catch sunlight to make electricity. (Abengoa Solar / Wikimedia Commons)

Why Solar Power Is Good

Solar power is good for the Earth. It does not make smoke or dirty the air. The sun will keep shining for a very long time, so we will not run out. Many homes and schools now use solar power to save money and help nature.

Fun Facts

  • One hour of sunlight on Earth has enough energy to power the whole world for a year.
  • The first solar cell was made way back in 1954.
  • Solar panels still work on cloudy days, just not as well.

Did You Know?

Some airplanes can fly using only solar power from the sun!