Photovoltaic Cells

Definition: Devices that convert light directly into electricity using semiconducting materials.

Relevance to energy: Photovoltaic cells are the primary components of solar panels, enabling the generation of clean, renewable electricity from sunlight.

Benefits:

  • Produces clean, renewable energy
  • No moving parts, leading to low maintenance
  • Can be integrated into various products and building materials

Drawbacks:

  • Efficiency can be affected by weather and shading
  • Manufacturing process can be energy-intensive
  • Requires proper disposal or recycling at end-of-life

Statistics: According to the International Energy Agency, the global installed capacity of solar PV grew from 23 GW in 2009 to 760 GW in 2020, becoming one of the fastest-growing renewable energy technologies.

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