Abstract: Disclosed is an improved solar energy collection device and method of making the device. A low shear strength solid, a thixotropic or approximately solid coagulum of black energy absorbing material is used to fill an open topped insulated tray, the top of which is glazed with one or more panels of light transmissive material. A heat transfer tube means is embedded in the coagulum of black material in the tray to promote efficient heat transfer to the secondary or storage fluid circulating within the tubing. Increased active heat transfer surface area is achieved by embedding the tubing directly and completely in the coagulum of black absorber material in the tray. The light transmissive glazing material may be in contact with the black coagulum absorption material to reduce convection, reflection and radiation losses back to the atmosphere. The light transmissive cover also acts as a contaminant shield for the coagulum or primary body of energy absorbing material.