Energy from the sun can be captured by solar panels. There are 2 main types of solar panels which uses complete different technologies to make use of the energy from the sun:

Solar Water Heating collectors: These panels absorb the energy from the sun and transfer it to heat water.

We have this type of solar panel on the Entrance Plaza roof at Eco-Park to heat the hot water used on the Park.

Photovoltaic or solar electric panels: These panels transform the solar radiation directly into electricity.

We have this type of solar panel on the boats of our river rides. Photovoltaic (PV) cells are used in simple applications e.g. calculators and watches and also for domestic and larger applications. Large PV systems can be integrated into buildings to generate electricity for export to the National grid.

For maximum efficiency, solar panels should be mounted on a south facing roof at a 30° angle with the horizontal and away from any shadows from trees, surrounding buildings or chimneys.