Sun reflected in a solar panel. Also known as photovoltaic systems, solar panels are a means of converting the sun's rays into direct electrical current. Solar power is an example of a renewable energy resource. The Sun here is displaying two of its typical features: sunspots (dark dots at lower centre) and loop prominences (red wisps at upper centre). Sunspots are pockets of cool, dark gas which occur in magnetically active regions, often in groups, on the face of the Sun. Loop prominences are cloud- and flame- like structures which rise above the surface of the Sun. Loops are formed from matter that is thrust up from the surface by high energy solar regions and pulled down again by strong magnetic fields.