Introducing Solar Photovoltaics
Solar photovoltaic technology, or "PV" for short, uses solar energy to produce electricity. PV is one of the most environmentally friendly technologies available and is very easy to install on a building or property. While cost can be a barrier to some installations, there are many incentives available for PV and over 400 systems installed in Massachusetts today - more installations than any other source of electricity.
What are photovoltaics (PV) and how do they work?
PV technology uses the electrical properties of materials known as semiconductors to produce electricity. When hit by sunlight, a semiconductor material creates an electrical charge which can then be transferred through a circuit to anything that uses electricity.
In a PV system, these semiconductors are produced in the form of cells, which are then assembled in a structural panel. There are many different types of panels available, and each has its particular advantages. Depending on the amount of electricity needed, these panels can then be connected in an array of any size to provide the electricity needed for a home, office, or larger facility.
You can learn much more about PV at the PV Technology page.
Why is PV considered clean, renewable energy?
The solar energy that hits the earth each day is the only fuel required for a PV system. Because PV uses this natural energy source, it does not require the burning of fossil fuels, which creates myriad environmental problems. Because the sun's energy will never run out, PV is also considered a renewable energy technology.
Where is PV used?
PV cells and panels can be manufactured and installed at almost any scale. As a result, they are used to power a broad variety of things. At its smallest, PV can power calculators, laptop computers, and other appliances. At its largest, it can power homes, offices, and other buildings that use large amounts of electricity. It can also be connected from these buildings to provide power to the electric grid, increasing the diversity of our collective electricity sources.
What are the benefits and barriers to using PV?
There are many benefits to using PV as an electricity source. Its environmental benefits are perhaps the most notable of any electricity source, and hold much promise for reducing environmental impacts from electricity production. At the same time, several barriers to this technology's widespread use still exist, the largest of which is the current cost of PV panels and installation. In spite of its barriers, PV is becoming more widely used each year due to incentives, and many systems have been installed around the world. Visit the Benefits and Barriers section to learn more.
How can I get involved?
PV technology is the easiest clean energy technology to install at your home or business. However, there are a number of codes and standards that must be met in order to properly install a PV system, and costs must be carefully considered before going forward with installation. Visit the What You Can Do section to learn more.