What is a photovoltaic system?

Photovoltaics (PV): Devices that convert solar energy into electricity using semiconductors (this conversion is called the photovoltaic effect). Solar panels are photovoltaics and make up a PV system. Power output/rating: The number of watts a solar panel produces in ideal conditions.

What is a photovoltaic (PV) cell?

A photovoltaic (PV) cell, commonly called a solar cell, is a nonmechanical device that converts sunlight directly into electricity. Some PV cells can convert artificial light into electricity. Sunlight is composed of photons, or particles of solar energy.

What does volt mean on a solar panel?

Open Circuit Voltage (Voc) Open Circuit Voltage (Voc) refers to the voltage output of a solar panel when there is no load connected. By measuring the voltage across the plus and minus leads with a voltmeter, you can determine Voc. This is an important value as it represents the maximum voltage the panel can produce under standard test conditions.

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)

What is a building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV)?

Building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV): Solar panels that can be integrated with a building's roof tiles rather than mounted on top of the roof. Also known as a solar shingle. Ground-mounted solar: Solar panel systems mounted in a foundation on a large plot of open land.

What is a polycrystalline solar panel?

Polycrystalline solar panels are made from raw silicon that has been melted and then cooled to form square-shaped crystals. Due to the manufacturing process, these typically have slightly lower solar panel efficiency ratings but are less expensive to produce than monocrystalline panels.