Solar thermal energy is a renewable energy technology that captures sunlight to produce heat. This process typically involves using solar collectors, which are devices that absorb sunlight and convert it into thermal energy. The heat generated can be used for various applications, such as heating water for residential use or powering industrial processes. In larger systems, solar thermal energy can also be used to generate electricity. This is done through concentrated solar power (CSP) plants, which use mirrors or lenses to focus sunlight onto a small area, creating high temperatures that drive turbines. This technology helps reduce reliance on fossil fuels and lowers greenhouse gas emissions.