The PV technology convert visible spectrum to electricity and thermal collectors use both infrared and visible spectrum for energy generation. So the energy generation from solar radiation can be in the form of electrical energy or thermal Energy. The various conversion paths of solar energy is described in the Fig.2
Solar photovoltaic (PV) power generation is the process of converting energy from the sun into electricity using solar panels. Solar panels, also called PV panels, are combined into arrays in a PV system. PV systems can also be installed in grid-connected or off-grid (stand-alone) configurations.
Highlights This paper reviews the progress made in solar power generation by PV technology. Performance of solar PV array is strongly dependent on operating conditions. Manufacturing cost of solar power is still high as compared to conventional power. Abstract
Solar power is the conversion of sunlight into electricity, either directly using photovoltaic (PV), or indirectly using concentrated solar power (CSP). The research has been underway since very beginning for the development of an affordable, in-exhaustive and clean solar energy technology for longer term benefits.
Photovoltaic power generation directly converts optical energy into power. The excess energy, if any, can be stored using batteries, but the costs for this are far greater than they are for solar-concentrating power generation, which uses thermal storage instead.
The energy from heat and light of solar radiation can be extracted to useful applications and the principle of operation is different depending on the technology. The PV technology convert visible spectrum to electricity and thermal collectors use both infrared and visible spectrum for energy generation.