However, in order for us to be able to understand and properly predict what the future holds for solar energy, we need to first take a step back and look at what solar energy is right now. Solar Energy Today Right now, solar energy is being used for a number of reasons. It is being widely used for certain purposes, such as providing your home with an alternative source for energy and electricity, thereby allowing you to greatly reduce the cost of your energy and electric consumption by a considerable margin. Solar cars mix the technology in bicycle, aerospace, automotive and alternative energy industries. The design of the solar vehicle is limited by the energy amount placed into the car. Majority of solar cars were made with the objective of solar car races. A few exceptions include solar-powered cars and utility vehicles. Included are active solar space heating, active solar pool heating and active solar water heating. According to Energy Type The second means of viewing solar energy relies on the kind of energy that it converts into. There are 3 kinds that belong in this category namely photovoltaic solar power, solar thermal energy and concentrating solar power. 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. On the other side, oil is not considered as a renewable source of energy. Oil can take millions of years to form. However, there are certain things and aspects about solar energy that should be discussed with people, especially since solar energy is now being integrated in constructing modern day houses and structures, and are even now becoming a viable source for power and electricity. One of those things that should be discussed involves the risk of using solar energy. The home also has to be designed to reduce barriers to air paths through the home to let natural ventilation in. You need to use the right type and size of windows to reduce the heat during extra hot days. Landscaping and structural features can be used to make shade. The home also has to be insulated well to keep the right temperature.