Solar Energy Technologies

Photovoltaics - What is It?

House with Solar

Photovoltaics is creating energy by converting sunlight into electrical energy through photovoltaic panels, or PV panels, according to the Solar Energy Technologies Office. These are more known as solar panels.

The panels are made of PV Cells, which are made of semiconductor materials, sandwiched between a combination of glass and/or plastic. The PV cells are connected together in chains to create a larger unit known as a panel. This, along with other components that convert the direct current, or DC electricity, to alternating-current (AC) electricity, will all come together to provide electrical power.

With the use of solar panels, even the smallest homes and devices may benefit from the electricity the sun can produce. You may have even seen some of these in your neighborhood.


This video will show you how the panels work: