The Photovoltaic Principle
Solar photovoltaic's are arrays of cells containing a
material that converts solar radiation into electricity.
Each solar cell is made from one or two layers of
semiconducting material, such as silicon. When solar
energy (photons) reaches each cell, it creates an
electric field across the layers. The stronger the
sunlight, the more electricity is produced, but solar
photovoltaic´s can still generate energy in overcast
conditions.
The sun is and will be a reliable source of energy
for the foreseeable future. A little over half of the
total solar energy passes through the atmosphere to
reach the Earth's surface. This energy flux has an
average power of 89,000 Terawatt (1 TW = 1012
Watt).
Photovoltaic solar cells produce energy in a
reliable solid-state configuration - without
moving parts - and are virtually maintenance
free during their expected lifetime of over 40
years.