ABSTRACT
Passive solar building design is the oldest use of solar power. It maximizes the direct use of solar power (without employing a panel or module) for lighting, heating and cooling in order to minimize the use of imported forms of energy. It means that elements of the building construction themselves collect solar energy and manage it efficiently. By contrast, active solar systems use added-on panels, collectors and stores, with pumps and fans. In practice, this distinction can become blurred and the two are often combined. However, keeping in mind the separate principles helps a designer minimize artificial energy use.
