Photovoltaics - How they work

Photovoltaic technology makes use of the abundant energy in the sun, and it has little impact on our environment. Photovoltaics can be used in a wide range of products, from small consumer items to large commercial solar electric systems.

Have you ever wondered how electricity is produced by a solar system? To help you understand we will cover the basics of PV technology, which includes the science (underlying physics), how various solar or PV devices are designed and are utilized in a complete and functioning power system.

Photovoltaic (PV) Science - In this section, you'll learn how sunlight is converted into electricity. We will explain the basics by using crystalline silicon as a common PV material to show some fundamental principles.

Photovoltaic (PV) Devices - Solar materials need to have certain important qualities. Learn what these characteristics are. We will show you the major families of PV materials currently being developed, including various types of silicon, thin films, and new concepts under development.

Photovoltaic (PV) Systems - Learn how solar cells are compounded to become a large photovoltaic system. Discover that PV systems come in two basic designs — flat-plate and concentrator systems. Other components, known as balance-of-system equipment (components within the completed power system), make the entire system fully integrated and serve to supply electricity various power requirements throughout our world.