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
By 2050 solar PV would represent the second-largest power generation source, just behind wind power and lead the way for the transformation of the global electricity sector. Solar PV would generate a quarter (25%) of total electricity needs globally, becoming one of prominent generations source by 2050.
A solar photovoltaic, wind turbine and fuel cell hybrid generation system is able to supply continuous power to load. In this system, the fuel cell is used to suppress fluctuations of the photovoltaic and wind turbine output power. The photovoltaic and wind turbines are controlled to track the maximum power point at all operating conditions.
Solar PV is emerging as one of the most competitive sources of new power generation capacity after a decade of dramatic cost declines. A decline of 74% in total installed costs was observed between 2010 and 2018 (Figure 10).
Photovoltaic power generation has been most useful in remote applications with small power requirements where the cost of running distribution lines was not feasible. As PV power becomes more affordable, the use of photovoltaics for grid-connected applications is increasing.