However, solar power only comprised 0.02% of the total in 2008. If solar power will be used double every 2 to 3 years, it can become the dominate source of energy for the century. The biggest solar power plants, are concentrating solar thermal plants, although new multi-megawatt photovoltaic plants have also been created. Solar energy power plants require a significant amount of space in order for it to be able to harness and collect enough solar energy and sunlight through its solar panels. Aside from that, solar energy power plants also require a place that is relatively very sunny at most times during the day, in order to get the most energy and sunlight. You can expect to continue getting power and energy from the sun for several decades without having to recharge batteries or keep purchasing new parts. Even though the energy may not always be readily available during cloudy days or at night, the availability is still there everyday. The solar energy supply will be available as long as the sun is existing. There are 3 kinds that belong in this category namely photovoltaic solar power, solar thermal energy and concentrating solar power. Active solar space heating is done to heat the air within the house. It uses mechanical tools and equipment like fans, pumps and blowers to help people gather, store and distribute the heat all over the home. You should visit some of the manufacturer web sites to determine the process and the ways how their solar panels are built. You should also read about the background of the company and what their objectives are in making these pieces. You should read more about installation to check if you want to install or build the panels yourself or hire a professional. The disadvantage to the approach is that the power may tend to fluctuate depending on the sunlight available. Some devices may not work as well if the acquired energy from the sun is insufficient. In some cases, power may totally fail if solar energy is limited or unavailable. On Installation Even though solar cell panels are readily available in most hardware stores and the internet, not everyone is still capable of installing the devices properly.