When the sunlight hits an Photovoltaic cell, the energy knocks the electrons free of their atoms, which allows flow through the material. Resulting Direct Current (DC) electricity is then sent to an inverter for conversion into Alternating Current (AC).
Solar Concentration systems generally use mirrors that are arranged in a series of long, parabolic troughs, a circle surrounding a "power tower" or a large round dish. This is done to focus the sun's reflected rays on heat-collection. Concentrated sunlight heats water or heat-transferring liquids to generate steam, which then is used to power turbines to generate electricity, as shown in the below diagram.
Refer to our Frequently Asked Questions to learn more about Solar Energy