How can you trap more of the sun's energy in winter to keep your home cozy and run it more efficiently? There are a number of things you can do without spending a cent - and some others that might just give you a well targeted investment. It is important to consider that while there is no single magic bullet, every little piece of passive solar energy you utilize, adds up to an overall improvement in your home's energy efficiency.Tiled flooring that absorbs solar heat and radiates all night long Any part of your floor that is exposed to the sun is a potential room heater. In winter, allow the sun to fall on your darker tiles or polished concrete as they are the best at absorbing daytime heat and radiating the heat back through the night. The key is to make sure that you maximise the opportunity to warm them up when the sun is on your windows during the day. Rooftop solar that heats water for both hot water and home heatingRooftop solar is the fastest growing household energy source in the world. Technology is improving every day, costs are coming down and feed in tariffs (the money you get from the energy companies for excess power) will continue to improve as more households supply more power. Solar power system can not only provide you with hot water, but heat your home and power your lights and appliances as well. Sunlight as House lightSkylights can fill your house with light regardless of which way your home faces. Natural heart warming sunlight can fill dark hallways and hidden corners. The more you can keep the lights off, the more you save - and the less you feel like a wombat! Every room can be a GreenhouseIf you have a room with some exposure to the sky you can start and sustain plants including herbs and even vegetables. It's not always about direct sunlight (although it helps). If you have an area where you think plants might grow, give them a try and see how they do. You might be surprised. See also: Cost Effective Energy Efficiency Updates.Pic: Upsplash | Breather