This document provides an introduction to solar energy, including its basic principles and uses. It discusses how solar energy works, the components of a solar energy system (collectors and storage), and current applications such as heating, cooling, transportation, and electricity generation. Solar energy can be used directly for heating applications and converted to electricity via photovoltaic cells. Inverters are required to convert the DC electricity from solar panels to the AC electricity used in homes and buildings. There are different types of solar inverters depending on the application. The document also discusses solar energy as a renewable alternative to fossil fuels that does not pollute and can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions.