Understanding Solar Photovoltaic: Benefits and Usage Tips

Nowadays, numerous renewable energy innovations are being developed to mitigate climate change caused by the use of non-renewable energy, and one of them is solar photovoltaic (PV) technology.

Solar photovoltaics are part of a solar power plant that converts solar energy into electricity. A solar PV system is made up of a bunch of solar panels.

This article explains solar photovoltaics, from what they are to how they work and their benefits. So, check out the full information below.

What Is Solar PV?

Solar PV, or solar photovoltaic, is a technology made from semiconductors, such as silicon, that converts solar energy into electrical energy through the photovoltaic effect.

The photovoltaic effect generates electrons or other free carriers when light shines on this material. The electrons produced are called photoelectrons.

A solar PV system consists of solar panels that have photovoltaic (PV) cells. These cells help the system convert sunlight into electrical energy. In fact, some types of photovoltaic cells can convert artificial light into electrical energy.

PV cells are combined to form larger units called panels or modules. Panels can be used independently or combined. Then, the panels are connected to the electrical grid to form a complete solar PV system. Due to this modular structure, solar PV systems can meet energy needs on various scales.

Generally, sunlight contains photons that carry energy. When photons strike the photovoltaic cell, they are absorbed by the semiconductor material and ultimately converted into electrical energy.

When the semiconductor material absorbs enough sunlight, electrons are released from the atoms of the material. The movement of electrons carrying a negative current toward the PV cell creates an imbalance in the electrical current on the surface and back of the cell.

As a result, this imbalance generates a voltage potential. The electrical conductor in the PV cell absorbs the electrons, and the electrical energy flows through the circuit to external devices, such as batteries.

As one of the alternative energy sources, data from the International Energy Agency (IEA) explained that solar PV is projected to become the largest renewable energy source by 2029.

The IEA predicts that between 2024 and 2030, this alternative technology will account for up to 80% of global renewable capacity due to the installation of solar power plants and the contribution of homes and office buildings utilizing solar PV.

How Solar Photovoltaic Works

Solar photovoltaics convert energy without producing pollution and use as much sunlight as possible, making them one of the clean energy solutions you can choose. Here is how solar photovoltaic cells work:

Photovoltaic cells in solar PV panels absorb sunlight.
Electrons in the semiconductor material are released when sunlight is absorbed by the PV cells. The electrons then move and generate direct current (DC).
The DC passes through an inverter to be converted into alternating current (AC). This conversion is necessary so that the electrical current can be used by electronic devices.
The electricity converted into AC is then supplied to homes or buildings. If the solar PV system's electricity output exceeds the demand, the excess energy is stored in batteries.

Solar PV systems are measured in kilowatt-peaks (kWp). This unit represents the maximum amount of electricity that a solar panel array can generate at peak performance, typically during sunny conditions or daytime hours.

Then, the unit of electricity generated is kilowatt-hours (kWh). Generally, 1 kWp of panels can only generate 1 kW of energy. The kWp of a solar system also depends on the type, size, and number of panels.

Furthermore, the amount of electricity generated depends on the location of the solar PV system, how bright and much sunlight enters, and the size of the system in kWp.

Benefits of Solar Photovoltaic

Solar photovoltaics offer many benefits for users and the environment, including:

1. Energy Cost Savings

The first benefit is energy cost savings. The initial installation cost of solar PV may be high, but in the long term, you can save on electricity costs for your business and household.

2. Eco-Friendly

As previously explained, installing solar PV does not produce pollution. Additionally, you can reduce carbon emissions by decreasing reliance on conventional electricity from fossil fuels and switching to solar PV.

3. Long Lifespan

Solar PV typically has a long lifespan, approximately 25 years or more. Even after this period, the technology continues to generate electricity efficiently.

4. Energy Independence

By using solar PV, you can reduce your reliance on fossil fuels that supply conventional electricity. Solar PV can also be installed in various conditions and locations, making it accessible to rural areas without conventional electricity.

5. Increase Property Value

Generally, buildings and homes with solar panels can have a higher property value, especially if potential buyers are interested in using eco-friendly renewable energy.

Types of Solar Photovoltaics

Solar photovoltaics are divided into three types, which are monocrystalline, polycrystalline, and thin-film. The following is a detailed explanation:

1. Monocrystalline

This type of solar panel is made of high-purity silicon. As a result, this type offers higher durability and efficiency compared to others. However, it may be more expensive. Monocrystalline panels are suitable for use in limited areas.

2. Polycrystalline

Polycrystalline panels are made from melted and reformed silicon crystals. Although they are less efficient than monocrystalline panels, they are more cost-effective.

3. Thin-Film

Thin-film panels are typically the most affordable solar PV option. This type consists of thin layers of PV material. The inverter for this system also needs to be replaced every 10 years. Despite this, these solar panels are lightweight and flexible, making them suitable for use in large areas and on a large scale.

Tips for Using Solar Photovoltaics

If you are interested in using solar photovoltaics, consider the following tips to optimize the electricity generated:

Use high-energy electronic devices during the day when the sun is shining.
Use low-energy electronic devices to save energy.
Install devices that can detect the amount of electricity generated by solar panels.
Integrate solar photovoltaics with batteries to store electrical energy.
Schedule the use of high-energy electronic devices to avoid depleting the electricity supply immediately.

That was an explanation of solar PV. As the impacts of global warming and climate change worsen, the use of renewable energy must continue to be promoted to reduce these effects.

If you are interested in using solar panels, trust Krakatau Chandra Energi. This subsidiary of the Chandra Asri Group provides electrical services, power supply, and solar panels. There are three types of solar panel installations: off-grid, on-grid, and hybrid.

Let’s utilize renewable energy to save on energy costs and preserve the environment!