Solar Panels and Photovoltaic Materials

Book excerpt: Despite their wide availability and relatively low prices, the conventional energy sources have harmful consequences on the environment and are exhaustible. In order to circumvent these negative effects, the renewable energies in general and the photovoltaic energy in particular are becoming more and more attractive. Solar cell is an electrical device that converts light into electricity at the atomic level. These devices use inorganic or organic semiconductor materials that absorb photons with energy greater than their bandgap to promote energy carriers into their conduction band. They do not pollute the atmosphere by releasing harmful gases, do not require any fuel to produce electricity, and do not move parts so they are rugged. Solar panels have a very long life and do not need much maintenance.