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Solar Thermal Energy
Solar thermal energy (STE) is a technology for harnessing solar energy for thermal energy (heat).
Solar thermal energy is a clean sustainable energy source that converts the heat from solar rays into electricity by indirect means, using steam cycles.
Solar thermal collectors are defined by the USA Energy Information Administration as low-, medium-, or high-temperature collectors.
Low temperature collectors are flat plates generally used to heat swimming pools. Medium-temperature collectors are also usually flat plates but are used for creating hot water for residential and commercial use.
High temperature collectors concentrate sunlight using mirrors or lenses and are generally used for electric power production.
This is different from solar photovoltaic’s, which convert solar energy directly into electricity.
Solar thermal power plants offer a highly efficient way of generating electricity in countries with direct irradiance values.
Concentrating Solar Power achieve high yields, run efficiently and have been in operation in the United States for more than 20 years with great success and a high profit.
 
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