Photovoltaics
Photovoltaic
panels are comprised of semiconductor materials that generate voltage or a
direct electric current when exposed to light.
This phenomenon is known as the photovoltaic effect. Common materials in use that have this
quality are monocrystalline silicon, polycrystalline silicon, amorphous
silicon, cadmium telluride, and copper indium selenide. Of these materials, the copper indium
selenide thin film module is the most efficient in the photovoltaic process,
obtaining 30% efficiency through the use of optical devices that concentrate
the incident light.
Photovoltaic modules are usually comprised of positively charged semiconductor and negatively charged semiconductor sheets placed one on top of the other. When light or solar radiation strikes the negatively charged layer, electrons are freed. Completing a circuit between these two layers then creates a current. Modules are comprised of small individual cells. In order to generate enough electricity for use, the modules are placed in arrays.
100 countries currently harness solar energy, yet the energy produced is a very small percentage of the current 4.8 TW global demand. The European Photovoltaic Industry Association estimates that by 2030, photovoltaic energy will generate 1.8 TW and serve 14% of world population.
Photovoltaic modules are usually comprised of positively charged semiconductor and negatively charged semiconductor sheets placed one on top of the other. When light or solar radiation strikes the negatively charged layer, electrons are freed. Completing a circuit between these two layers then creates a current. Modules are comprised of small individual cells. In order to generate enough electricity for use, the modules are placed in arrays.
100 countries currently harness solar energy, yet the energy produced is a very small percentage of the current 4.8 TW global demand. The European Photovoltaic Industry Association estimates that by 2030, photovoltaic energy will generate 1.8 TW and serve 14% of world population.