The present invention relates to systems and methods for solar energy utilization. One embodiment of the present invention relates to a rotating panel system for solar energy utilization, including thermal, electrical, and visual applications. The system includes a plurality of rotatable panels, a rotation system, and a housing. The housing both mechanically supports the rotatable panels and thermally insulates and/or redirects the heat and/or electricity generated by the panels. A second embodiment of the present invention relates to an automatic climate control system utilizing a rotating panel system. The system includes an enclosed region and a multi-panel solar system. The multi-panel solar system is positioned to extend between the interior and exterior regions of an enclosed region. A third embodiment of the present invention relates to a method for utilizing a plurality of panels to desirably accommodate for visual and thermal forms of solar energy. The method includes positioning a multi-panel solar system in an unobstructed interior to exterior recess and rotating the panels so as to optimally affect the thermal and visual components of the solar energy, depending upon the application.