Photovoltaic means the generation of an electric voltage using light (=light particles = photons) A photovoltaic device (=solar cell) generates an electric voltage and - if an electric appliance, such as a water pump is connected - also electric current Both voltage and current is needed to give electric power
Converting light into electricity Photo means "light," voltaic means "electric" Often referred to as "PV" for short More commonly referred to as "solar electric "
refers to any device which produces free electrons when exposed to light When these electrons are properly gathered, a potential difference (voltage) may be produced by the device, for example, a solar cell produces approximately one half volt in full sun
- Converting light into electricity Photo means "light" voltaic means "electric" Often referred to as "PV" for short More commonly referred to as "solar electric"
Capable of generating a voltage as a result of exposure to radiation Solar power generation systems use photovoltaic energy from the sun's radiation to produce electricity
Technology in which a semiconductor electrical junction device converts the radiant energy of sunlight directly and efficiently into electrical energy Most solar cells are made from single-crystal silicon (Source: Mintzer, 1992)