Photovoltaic solar energy is a clean, renewable power source that converts sunlight into electricity. Solar panels, made up of solar cells from materials like silicon, capture sunlight and convert it directly into energy.
The best part is that it produces energy without emitting harmful gases, helping to reduce our carbon footprint. The efficiency of the panels depends on the materials used, system design, and the amount of sunlight available.
Thanks to technological advancements, solar energy has become more affordable and accessible, from small portable systems to large solar farms, showing its versatility and growing importance in the shift toward renewable energy.
What is photovoltaic solar energy?
Photovoltaic solar energy is the process where solar panels convert sunlight into electricity through the photovoltaic effect. This occurs when light hits certain materials, generating voltage and an electric current.
How it works:
- Material absorption: solar panels are made of cells (typically silicon) that absorb photons of light.
- Excitation of electrons: the light excites electrons, making them flow and create an electric current.
- Conversion to usable power: this current is then converted into electricity that powers devices or feeds into the grid.
The efficiency of photovoltaic systems can be affected by factors such as panel quality, sunlight intensity, and weather conditions. Panels work best on sunny days, producing more energy than on cloudy or rainy ones.
Ongoing advancements in solar technology are improving the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of photovoltaic materials, playing a key role in the shift toward sustainable energy worldwide.
How do photovoltaic solar panels work?
Photovoltaic (PV) solar panels convert sunlight into electricity using semiconductor materials like silicon. When sunlight hits the solar cells, it causes electrons to move, generating an electric current.
Here’s how it works:
- Absorption: solar cells absorb photons when sunlight hits the panel.
- Electron-hole creation: photons generate electron-hole pairs in the silicon.
- Electric current: the internal electric field makes the electrons flow, creating current.
- Current capture: metal contacts capture the current for use.
Since a single solar cell generates a small amount of power, they are combined into modules and assembled into panels. Residential panels typically contain 60 cells and generate 220-400 watts.
The efficiency depends on factors like temperature, sunlight hours, and the quality of materials. Panels may need to be combined to meet energy needs, influenced by location and consumption.
There are different types of solar cells, including monocrystalline (single crystal) and polycrystalline (multiple fragments). Regardless, photovoltaic panels are a clean, renewable energy source that doesn't emit greenhouse gases during operation.
Benefits of photovoltaic solar energy
Photovoltaic (PV) solar energy is a clean, renewable power source that reduces reliance on fossil fuels and decreases environmental pollution. By harnessing the sun’s energy, solar panels generate electricity with minimal environmental impact, improving public health by reducing airborne pollutants. Solar energy is becoming increasingly cost-effective as technology advances, making it more accessible for both residential and commercial use.
PV systems are highly scalable and can be customized to meet various energy needs, from small rooftop installations to large solar farms. Solar energy is reliable, particularly during daylight hours, which often coincide with peak electricity demand, easing grid pressure. With low maintenance requirements and a lifespan of several decades, solar panels offer a long-term, eco-friendly energy solution, helping reduce the carbon footprint and contributing to global sustainability goals.
Challenges of photovoltaic solar energy
Despite its many advantages, photovoltaic (PV) solar energy faces several challenges. The initial cost of installation is one of the biggest barriers, as solar panels and related equipment can be a significant investment, though they may offer long-term energy savings. Another challenge is efficiency: typical panels convert only 15-20% of sunlight into electricity, and improving this efficiency remains a work in progress.
Environmental factors like temperature, radiation intensity, and dust accumulation can reduce solar panel performance. High temperatures can decrease efficiency, while dirt can block sunlight. Energy storage also remains a challenge, as storing power for cloudy days or nighttime requires expensive batteries with limited lifespans. Additionally, the end-of-life management of solar panels is an ongoing concern, with efforts being made to improve recycling and disposal solutions.
Differences between photovoltaic solar energy and solar thermal energy
Photovoltaic (PV) solar energy and solar thermal energy both harness the sun's power but in different ways. PV systems convert sunlight directly into electricity using solar cells, while solar thermal systems absorb the sun's heat to heat a fluid, which can then be used for heating or to generate electricity through steam turbines.
Key differences include:
- Energy type: pv generates electricity; solar thermal provides heat (which can also generate electricity indirectly).
- Applications: pv is versatile, used in both rooftops and large solar farms. Solar thermal is mainly used for water and space heating, or in large-scale thermal power plants.
- Efficiency: solar thermal is typically more efficient for heating, but pv systems are more cost-effective for electricity production.
- Space: pv systems usually require more space than solar thermal systems since they produce less power per square meter.
- Climate impact: pv systems are more adaptable to varying temperatures, while solar thermal systems rely on heat and are affected more by cold conditions. However, thermal energy storage can provide heat even when the sun isn't shining.
As the sun continues to shine, so too does the future of energy—photovoltaic solar power is a bright, sustainable solution lighting the way to a cleaner tomorrow.
Victoria Gómez is an expert in digital marketing and strategic communication with experience in both the private and public sectors. She is currently the External Communication and Public Relations Manager at Bluence, where she leads content and engagement strategies. Graduate in Journalism and Audiovisual Communication, with a master’s degree in Digital Marketing.
