Answer; "Solar panels" is a rather generic term for a system which utilizes the energy from sunlight. Photovoltaic "solar panels" turn sunlight into electrical energy which is then available for use in any electrically powered appliance. The energy can be used immediately, or stored for later use in a series of recyclable batteries.  The benefit is obvious, especially in  a very sunny place. In addition, having the panels on your sunniest roof exposure actually shades your home from the suns heat by providing an addtional barrier, thereby aiding in the cooling of your home.  Should your sytem produce excess energy, beyond your own usage needs, you can actually sell the additional power back to the utility company! Wouldn't it be nice to get a monthly check from your company rather than a bill? Extremely advanced systems can and have been created in which the electricity generated is used to electrolize water into hydrogen, for heating fuel, and pure oxygen for medical grade usage.

  There are also "solar panels" for water heating through which room tempurature water passes and can be heated up to boiling point for immediate use, or stored for later use. This could reduce or eliminate your need for natural gas water heating, or perhaps even be used in Hydronic heating applications, (floor and space heating).