What is a solar photovoltaic (PV) device?

Solar photovoltaic (PV) devices, or solar cells, convert sunlight directly into electricity. Small PV cells can power calculators, watches, and other small electronic devices. Larger solar cells are grouped in PV panels, and PV panels are connnected in arrays that can produce electricity for an entire house.

How efficient is a solar PV system?

Experimental PV cells and PV cells for niche markets, such as space satellites, have achieved nearly 50% efficiency. When the sun is shining, PV systems can generate electricity to directly power devices such as water pumps or supply electric power grids.

How do solar photovoltaic cells work?

Solar photovoltaic cells are grouped in panels, and panels can be grouped into arrays of different sizes to power water pumps, power individual homes, or provide utility-scale electricity generation. Source: National Renewable Energy Laboratory (copyrighted)

Can a PV cell convert artificial light into electricity?

Some PV cells can convert artificial light into electricity. Sunlight is composed of photons, or particles of solar energy. These photons contain varying amounts of energy that correspond to the different wavelengths of the solar spectrum. A PV cell is made of semiconductor material.

How is solar power generated?

Solar power is generated in two main ways: Solar photovoltaic (PV) uses electronic devices, also called solar cells, to convert sunlight directly into electricity. It is one of the fastest-growing renewable energy technologies and is playing an increasingly important role in the global energy transformation.

What is a third type of photovoltaic technology?

A third type of photovoltaic technology is named after the elements that compose them. III-V solar cells are mainly constructed from elements in Group III—e.g., gallium and indium—and Group V—e.g., arsenic and antimony—of the periodic table. These solar cells are generally much more expensive to manufacture than other technologies.