This book provides an outstanding single-volume resource on the topic of solar energy for young adults and general audiences. It outlines how humankind has utilized various forms of energy from the sun by way of photovoltaic cells, concentrating or focusing solar power, active and passive solar heating, and other mechanisms; and provides perspectives on today's solar energy issues from a variety of subject experts. The book also includes profiles of key individuals and organizations related to the field of solar energy, a chronology of important events in the history of solar energy, and a glossary that defines the key terms used in discussing the topic of solar energy.