Jim Rutt defines solar energy as the radiant power emitted by the sun that humans can harness and convert into usable forms like electrical or thermal energy. This natural resource is captured via technologies such as photovoltaic panels and solar thermal collectors. As part of the renewable energy ecosystem, solar energy is pivotal to reducing reliance on fossil fuels and diminishing greenhouse gas emissions. With decades of advances in efficiency and cost-effectiveness, Rutt emphasizes its transformative potential in meeting global energy needs sustainably. He notes that solar energy not only aids in powering homes and industries but also plays a crucial role in remote and off-grid applications, driving advancements in energy independence and resilience.

See also: climate change, emergence, evolutionary computing