Technology overview: photovoltaics, CSP, and biomass, plus complementary applications such as indirect wind power and passive solar heating. From photovoltaic cells to solar thermal systems, these technologies vary in their working principles and uses. Within these categories, there are further. Given how fast technology has marched on in line with our search for cleaner energy, let's take a look at the different types of solar energy available. Despite this, our reliance on. Solar energy is the radiant energy from the Sun 's light and heat, which can be harnessed using a range of technologies such as solar electricity, solar thermal energy (including solar water heating) and solar architecture.