About Photovoltaics

About Photovoltaics | Solar Energy | Typical System | Energy Production

Solar Energy

We receive an enormous amount of energy from the Sun. In 2.6 days, the energy received on the Earth from the Sun is equivalent to the world's entire resources of oil, coal and gas. This huge, unlimited energy resource is available to every country of the world and is more than enough to provide all of our energy needs. Photovoltaics is the direct conversion of sunlight to electricity using semiconductor technology. Current solar cells convert approximately 15-20% of the incoming solar energy into electricity. When compared with the total "mine-to-socket" efficiency of other electricity sources, photovoltaics are a highly efficient energy technology.

Solar Energy Systems for Buildings

When applied in buildings, photovoltaic modules are usually connected to the electricity grid via an inverter. The PV system exports energy to the grid and in many countries this is bought at a preferential rate by the electricity company. Standard electricity is bought from the grid in the normal way. In a well designed residential house a PV system on the roof can produce the same amount of electricity as is used within the house over a total year.