Free course

Energy resources: solar energy

Free statement of participation on completion
Energy resources: solar energy Copyrighted Icon
More about this course

Course description

Course content

Course reviews

Energy from sources other than fossil and nuclear fuels is to a large extent free of the concerns about environmental effects and renewability that characterize those two sources. Each alternative source supplies energy continually, whether or not we use it, and most have their origins in energy generated outside the Earth, yet the potential of each is limited by its total supply set against its rate of use. The Sun will radiate energy until it ceases thermonuclear fusion, in around 5 billion years. This free course, Energy resources: solar energy, explores the Sun as a potential source of usable energy.

Course learning outcomes

After studying this course, you should be able to:

  • explain the principles that underlie the ability of various natural phenomena to deliver solar energy
  • outline the technologies that are used to harness the power of solar energy
  • discuss the positive and negative aspects of solar energy in relation to natural and human aspects of the environment.
Enter course

First Published: 09/08/2012

Updated: 22/03/2016

You can start this course right now without signing-up. Click on any of the course content sections below to start at any point in this course.
If you want to be able to track your progress, earn a free Statement of Participation, and access all course quizzes and activities, sign-up.

Course content

Expand all course content
Skip Rate and Review

For further information, take a look at our frequently asked questions which may give you the support you need.

Have a question?
S278_6

Take your learning further

Making the decision to study can be a big step, which is why you'll want a trusted University. The Open University has 50 years’ experience delivering flexible learning and 170,000 students are studying with us right now. Take a look at all Open University courses.

If you are new to University-level study, we offer two introductory routes to our qualifications. You could either choose to start with an Access module, or a module which allows you to count your previous learning towards an Open University qualification. Read our guide on Where to take your learning next for more information.

Not ready for formal University study? Then browse over 1000 free courses on OpenLearn and sign up to our newsletter to hear about new free courses as they are released.

Every year, thousands of students decide to study with The Open University. With over 120 qualifications, we’ve got the right course for you.

Request an Open University prospectus371