This chapter discusses the causes
and effects of solar energy incidents on Earth's spectral, skyward angular,
intensity, and luminous characteristics. A particular perspective is how these
characteristics influence and determine how particular practical devices,
systems, and applications harness available solar energy. The uses of solar
energy to produce heat, generate electricity via photovoltaics, and
provide daylight are considered. Moreover, diverse factors limiting the
applicability of specific solar energy conversion devices or approaches are
also discussed.
Keywords: Radiation, Solar energy, Solar instruments, Sun-Earth angle.
