Photovoltaic

Definition

Photovoltaic (PV) refers to the technology involved in the direct conversion of light into electricity using materials that exhibit the photovoltaic effect, specifically silicon cells. This technology is predominantly used in solar panels to capture energy from sunlight and transform it into electrical energy for various applications.

Examples

Residential Solar Panels: A homeowner installs photovoltaic solar panels on their rooftop to generate electricity for household use, reducing their reliance on grid power and lowering energy bills.
Commercial Solar Farms: Companies invest in large-scale photovoltaic solar farms that feed electricity into the grid, contributing to the overall supply of renewable energy and often benefiting from government incentives.
Portable Solar Chargers: Photovoltaic cells are incorporated into portable solar chargers that can be used to charge electronic devices such as smartphones and laptops, providing an eco-friendly alternative to traditional power sources.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the main components of a photovoltaic system?

A photovoltaic system typically includes solar panels, inverters, mounting systems, and sometimes batteries or other storage devices.

How does a photovoltaic cell work?

A photovoltaic cell absorbs sunlight and converts it into electrical energy by generating a flow of electrons through a semiconductor material, usually silicon.

What are the benefits of using photovoltaic systems?

Benefits include generating renewable energy, reducing electricity bills, decreasing carbon footprint, and potentially receiving financial incentives or tax credits.

Can photovoltaic systems work when it’s cloudy?

Yes, photovoltaic systems can still generate electricity on cloudy days, though their efficiency is reduced compared to sunny conditions.

What is the lifespan of a photovoltaic system?

The average lifespan of a photovoltaic system is about 25-30 years, with efficiency slightly decreasing over time.

Solar Cell: A semiconductor device that converts light into electrical energy.
Inverter: An apparatus that converts the direct current (DC) output of a photovoltaic solar panel into alternating current (AC) for use in the electricity grid or by home appliances.
Solar Panel: A set of photovoltaic cells arranged in a panel that captures sunlight and converts it into electricity.
Renewable Energy: Energy from natural sources that is constantly replenished, such as sunlight, wind, and water.
Grid-Tied System: A photovoltaic system that is connected to the utility grid and can feed excess electricity back into the grid.
Off-Grid System: A photovoltaic system that operates independently of the utility grid and typically uses batteries to store electricity.

Online Resources

References

NREL. (n.d.). Photovoltaics Research. Retrieved from https://www.nrel.gov/pv/
U.S. Department of Energy. (2023). Solar Photovoltaic Technology Basics. Retrieved from https://www.energy.gov/eere/solar/types-solar-photovoltaic-technology

Suggested Books for Further Studies

Solar Electricity Handbook by Michael Boxwell
Photovoltaic Systems by James P. Dunlop
Solar Engineering of Thermal Processes by John A. Duffie and William A. Beckman

Real Estate Basics: Photovoltaic Fundamentals Quiz

### What is the primary function of a photovoltaic cell? - [x] Convert light into electrical energy. - [ ] Store electricity for later use. - [ ] Heat water for residential use. - [ ] Reflect sunlight away from the roof. > **Explanation:** The primary function of a photovoltaic cell is to convert light (usually sunlight) into electrical energy. ### How do photovoltaic systems benefit the environment? - [ ] By increasing the use of fossil fuels. - [x] By reducing greenhouse gas emissions. - [ ] By promoting deforestation. - [ ] By increasing energy waste. > **Explanation:** Photovoltaic systems generate electricity without burning fossil fuels, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and decreasing the environmental footprint. ### What type of energy is converted by photovoltaic cells? - [ ] Thermal energy - [ ] Kinetic energy - [x] Light energy - [ ] Nuclear energy > **Explanation:** Photovoltaic cells convert light energy directly into electrical energy through the photovoltaic effect. ### Can photovoltaic systems generate electricity during night-time? - [ ] Yes, they store light energy for night use. - [x] No, they require sunlight and don’t work at night. - [ ] Yes, but only with additional lighting. - [ ] No, they use wind instead. > **Explanation:** Photovoltaic systems require sunlight to generate electricity and are not capable of doing so during night-time. ### What role does an inverter play in a photovoltaic system? - [ ] It generates sunlight. - [x] It converts direct current (DC) to alternating current (AC). - [ ] It stores electrical energy. - [ ] It captures wind energy. > **Explanation:** An inverter converts the direct current (DC) generated by the photovoltaic cells into alternating current (AC), which is commonly used in houses and the grid. ### What is one common use of photovoltaic systems besides residential installations? - [ ] Fueling gas-powered cars - [x] Powering commercial solar farms - [ ] Increasing coal extraction - [ ] Reflecting sunlight to reduce heat > **Explanation:** Besides residential installations, photovoltaic systems are commonly used in commercial solar farms to generate electricity and feed it into the power grid. ### How long can you expect a typical photovoltaic system to last? - [ ] 10-15 years - [ ] 5-10 years - [x] 25-30 years - [ ] 50-60 years > **Explanation:** A typical photovoltaic system can last about 25-30 years, with efficiency gradually decreasing over time. ### Which material is most commonly used in photovoltaic cells? - [ ] Gold - [x] Silicon - [ ] Aluminum - [ ] Copper > **Explanation:** Silicon is the material most commonly used in photovoltaic cells due to its effective semiconductor properties. ### How can excess electricity generated by a photovoltaic system be utilized when connected to the grid? - [x] It can be fed back into the utility grid. - [ ] It is wasted and not used. - [ ] It is converted into heat. - [ ] It charges personal electronic devices. > **Explanation:** When connected to the grid, excess electricity generated by a photovoltaic system can be fed back into the utility grid. ### What is one financial benefit of installing a photovoltaic system? - [ ] Decreasing the value of the property - [ ] Avoiding maintenance costs - [ ] Increasing carbon emissions - [x] Reducing electricity bills > **Explanation:** One financial benefit of installing a photovoltaic system is reducing electricity bills due to the generation and use of renewable energy, lowering reliance on grid power.