Solar photovoltaic
Technology that converts light directly into electricity using semiconductor materials.
Example
Rooftop panels generate power during daylight, with output depending on conditions.
The catch
Nameplate capacity differs from annual electricity production.
Related terms
Electrification, Energy conservation, Energy efficiency, Energy storage, Fossil fuel, Heat pump
In more depth
Solar photovoltaic, explained.
Solar photovoltaic power has become one of the cheapest sources of new electricity in many countries, according to the IEA, and it is growing faster than any other source. A panel produces direct current, which an inverter converts for the grid, and output declines slowly as modules age.
Most of its life-cycle emissions come from manufacturing. A panel made with coal power carries a larger footprint than one made with clean power, and sunnier sites spread that footprint over more output. A life-cycle assessment typically finds solar far lower in emissions per unit of electricity than coal or gas generation. Its challenge is timing. Output peaks at midday and stops at night, so large solar fleets need energy storage and grid links to avoid wasting power in sunny hours.