NOVELTY - The converter apparatus has a receiver (1) having layers configured respectively for reflecting and converting received solar energy. The layers are provided in a mutually overlying arrangement and configured such that a first part of the received solar is converted to energy of another form and a second part is reflected to a solar energy receiver. At least one energy power output is configured to convey converted solar energy from the receiver. A drive system receives the energy from the energy output to drive the receiver.    USE - Reflecting and photovoltaic converter apparatus for use in solar concentrating system. Can be used in conversion of solar radiation to electric power in solar power systems (claimed) and solar energy systems.    ADVANTAGE - Provides an efficient system for the conversion of solar radiation to thermal and electric energy. Redirects the energy from a source to compensate a central energy production system and to take maximum advantage of the energy that is available. Accepts energy and redirects the energy to recapture otherwise wasted excess total system flux. Includes a central mirror with variable reflectivity to rapidly modulate the total flux to guard against emergency conditions. Redirects the energy to moderate the flux during an unsteady operating period of the receiver but capture the energy that would otherwise be lost, in which the unsteady operating period of the receiver may be a startup period of a boiler. Redirects the energy using solar energy at wavelengths that are ill-suited to conversion by economical photovoltaic devices. Ensures that the solar energy at wavelengths ill-suited to conversion by economical photovoltaic devices may be directed to a different type of converter such as thermal receiver of a concentrating system.    DETAILED DESCRIPTION - An INDEPENDENT CLAIM is also included for the control method for heliostats in a solar power system.    DESCRIPTION OF DRAWING(S) - The drawing is a diagrammatic elevation view showing the heliostats and central power tower.    Receiver (1)    Incident solar radiation (28)    Heliostats (38)    Solar power system (44)    Electric power generating plant (45)