photovoltäische

Photovoltaik, often abbreviated as PV, refers to the direct conversion of light into electricity using semiconducting materials. This process relies on the photovoltaic effect, a physical phenomenon where certain materials generate an electric current when exposed to light. The most common application of photovoltaics is in solar panels, also known as solar modules, which are composed of numerous photovoltaic cells.

When photons from sunlight strike the photovoltaic cell, they excite electrons within the semiconductor material, typically silicon. This excitation causes the electrons to break free from their atomic bonds, creating electron-hole pairs. An internal electric field within the cell then separates these charge carriers, directing the electrons to one side and the holes to the other, thus generating a direct current (DC). This DC electricity can then be used directly, stored in batteries, or converted to alternating current (AC) by an inverter for use in homes and businesses or for feeding into the electrical grid.

The efficiency of photovoltaic cells varies depending on the material used and the manufacturing process. While silicon-based cells dominate the market, other materials like cadmium telluride and copper indium gallium selenide are also employed. Photovoltaics is a key technology in renewable energy generation, contributing to a cleaner and more sustainable energy future.