What is solar photovoltaic (PV) power generation?

Solar photovoltaic (PV) power generation is the process of converting energy from the sun into electricity using solar panels.

How is solar energy generated?

Solar energy - Electricity Generation: Solar radiation may be converted directly into solar power (electricity) by solar cells, or photovoltaic cells. In such cells, a small electric voltage is generated when light strikes the junction between a metal and a semiconductor (such as silicon) or the junction between two different semiconductors.

What are the main types of solar energy?

The primary methods for capturing and utilizing solar energy are photovoltaic (PV) technology, solar thermal systems, and concentrated solar power (CSP). Photovoltaic technology converts sunlight directly into electricity by exciting electrons in PV cells.

Where does solar energy come from?

Solar energy comes from the limitless power source that is the sun. It is a clean, inexpensive, renewable resource that can be harnessed virtually everywhere. Any point where sunlight hits the Earth's surface has the potential to generate solar power. Solar power is renewable by nature.

How does solar power work?

Solar power works by converting energy from the sun into power. There are two forms of energy generated from the sun for our use – electricity and heat. Both are generated through the use of solar panels, which range in size from residential rooftops to ‘solar farms’ stretching over acres of rural land. Is solar power a clean energy source?

What are the different types of solar power generation?

Solar power generation is categorized mainly into photovoltaic and photothermal power generation. Photovoltaic power generation involves the use of solar photovoltaic cells to convert sunlight directly into electric power based on the photovoltaic effect.