Photovoltaic technologies use semiconductors to trap the son's light and convert it to electricity. Such solar power is already being used to run all sorts of devices, from calculator to the Hubble Telescope in outer space. These accomplishments show that harnessing solar power is possible, but it remains expensive and in efficient. Scientists are still trying to find ways to make solar power a more widely used energy source. It is a big challenge, but many believe that the future of our planet depends on it.

光电技术利用半导体捕获太阳光能，然后把太阳光能转换成电能。这类太阳能已应用在诸如计算机和哈伯太空望远镜等各种装置中。 上述各项应用成果均证明了太阳能是可以加以利用的，只是还很昂贵，而且成效还不够明显。科学家们至今仍在设法充分利用太阳能。虽然这是一大挑战，但是许多人都认为地球的未来就靠太阳能了。

重点解析：

Photovoltaic adj. 光电的
semiconductor n. 半导体
This is a semiconductor integrated circuit.
这是一个半导体集成电路。
convert v. （使）转变，转化
The solar cell can convert the energy of sunlight into electric energy.
太阳能电池能把阳光的能量转化为电能。
harness v. 管理，控制，利用
They will harness the sun's energy to heat homes.
他们将利用太阳能为住宅供暖。