Solar energy is electromagnetic radiation that is given off by the sun and captured to be turned into useful energy. Plants absorb solar energy to turn sunlight into food through the process of photosynthesis, while humans capture sunlight to turn it into useful electricity using processes like the photovoltaic effect. The electricity produced by solar energy can be used in power grids or stored in batteries. Energy from the sun is abundant and free, and the costs of converting solar energy into electricity continue to fall as solar technology becomes more advanced and efficient. Solar energy is the most accessible and plentiful source of energy on Earth.1 It also has the advantage of producing a lower carbon footprint than fossil fuels, which reduces its overall environmental impact.