The amount of fossil fuels is currently decreasing globally. Due to the imbalance between electricity supply and demand, the need for alternative energy sources has intensified. In this context, solar energy is an ideal solution to compensate for this need. Photovoltaic systems offer a sustainable option to this energy crisis, as they contribute significantly to reducing dependence on fossil fuels, while helping in the fight against climate change.
Photovoltaic technology is an innovative and fundamental sector in the generation of electricity by converting solar radiation into electricity. The central component of this technology is the photovoltaic cell. This is the cornerstone of photovoltaic technology and is a sustainable and clean way to produce electricity.
How solar energy is converted into electricity
A photovoltaic cell (also called a “solar cell”) is an electronic device that converts solar radiation directly into electricity. It is made of a semiconductor material. When photons from solar energy hit a photovoltaic cell, they can either reflect, pass through the cell or be absorbed by it. The absorbed photons provide energy to generate electricity. Electrons in semiconductor materials are released from their atoms when they absorb enough solar radiation. The front surface of the cell is more susceptible to dislodged or free electrons due to the special surface treatment used during production, which causes electrons to naturally migrate to the cell surface.
Electrons have a negative charge. When electrons move towards the front of the solar cell, this creates a charge imbalance between the front and back of the cell. This imbalance produces an electrical voltage, and the electrical conductors on the cell trap these electrons. When conductors are connected in an electrical circuit, electricity flows through the circuit.
The image above shows the inside of a photovoltaic cell. Image source is U.S. Energy Information Administration.
Classification of photovoltaic cells
Photovoltaic cells can be made in many different ways and from a variety of different materials. However, they perform the same task, namely to collect solar energy and convert it into electricity.
Solar cells can be classified into first, second and third generation cells.
- First-generation cells are made from crystalline silicon, which includes materials such as polysilicon and monocrystalline silicon. These are common semiconductor materials used in the photovoltaic industry to produce efficient solar cells.
- Second-generation cells are thin-film solar cells that include amorphous silicon, CdTe and CIGS cells. They are used to generate electricity in various applications, for example buildings, portable systems and electronic devices.
- The third generation of solar cells includes a number of thin-film technologies often described as emerging photovoltaics. They promise to bring significant advances in the efficiency and affordability of solar energy.
Photovoltaic systems
A photovoltaic system is a power generation system that uses photovoltaic cells to generate electricity by converting solar energy.
A photovoltaic system contains several key elements that work together to use solar energy. The main components of a photovoltaic system are:
- Photovoltaic panels: Photovoltaic panels are devices that convert sunlight into electricity through photovoltaic cells. These panels consist of photovoltaic cells made from semiconductor materials such as silicon, which generate electricity when exposed to solar radiation.
- Inverter: Inverter is a device that converts direct current produced by photovoltaic panels into alternating current, used by industry, businesses, households, infrastructure, etc.
- Mounting structure: Mounting structures are designed to position the panels at an optimal angle and orientation for exposure to sunlight. The panels must be mounted on a structure, such as a roof or ground-mounted structure, to effectively capture sunlight.
- Monitoring system: The monitoring system collects and analyses performance data. Users receive statistics, information about the energy generated, the status of components, and any problems that may occur during use.
- Electrical installations and connectors: Electrical installations and connectors provide the connection between system elements and facilitate the flow of electricity. Photovoltaic connectors are specially designed to withstand varying weather conditions and prevent power loss.
- Charge controller: The charge controller, also called charge controller, manages the charging and discharging of batteries used in the system. Among the load controller’s features are voltage and current regulation, overload prevention and excess energy management.
- Batteries: Batteries are used when photovoltaic panels do not produce enough electricity, for example at night or on days without sunlight. Batteries have the charge controller as an integral part. The charge controller, also called charge controller, manages the charging and discharging of batteries used in the system. Among the load controller’s features are voltage and current regulation, overload prevention and excess energy management.
The components of photovoltaic systems work in harmony to capture, store and use solar energy efficiently.
The importance of renewable energy in the modern world
Renewable energy plays a very important role in the fight against climate change. The sun is an infinite source of energy that is widely accessible, and it’s time to make the most of its energy potential. By adopting solar technologies, we contribute significantly to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, limiting the negative impact of climate change. Solar energy is also an inexhaustible and sustainable source.
Electricity generated by photovoltaic panels offers opportunities for development and improving the quality of life in less developed communities. Developing this industry also stimulates economic growth and reduces dependence on energy imports.
Research and innovation efforts continue in the field of renewable energy with the aim of generating new breakthroughs. The solar energy industry generates employment opportunities in various fields, from research and development to installation, maintenance and production. An increase in demand for solar panels and related technologies is leading to the expansion of factories and the creation of new production facilities, thus creating jobs.
From the direct conversion of solar radiation into electricity to the diversity of photovoltaic cells and their importance, the article highlights the key role of these technologies in the global fight against climate change. Photovoltaic systems are innovative solutions for electricity generation and are a fundamental element in building a sustainable environment and meeting growing demands.
Today, the importance of renewable energy is becoming more and more evident, which is why investing in photovoltaic technology is a smart choice and a significant contribution to building a sustainable energy future.
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