Solar Photovoltaics

About

Solar photovoltaics (PV) is a technology that converts sunlight into electricity using semiconductor materials. This process involves photons striking the material, freeing electrons that flow through an electrical circuit, generating power. Solar cells are typically made from crystalline silicon or thin-film materials, with crystalline silicon being more efficient but costlier. Solar PV systems range from small residential installations to large utility-scale power plants, offering flexibility and scalability. Solar PV has seen rapid growth due to declining costs and policy support. It is expected to play a significant role in meeting global electricity demand. The technology's modularity allows for both small-scale and large-scale deployments, making it suitable for various applications. Concentrated PV systems use lenses or mirrors to focus sunlight, increasing efficiency but requiring sophisticated tracking systems. Solar PV's importance in clean energy transitions is underscored by its potential to become the largest renewable energy source by 2029.