Difference Between Photovoltaic Cells And Solar Panels

What is the difference between photovoltaic and solar panels.

Difference between photovoltaic cells and solar panels.

These cells are made from compounds that produce electricity due to the photovoltaic effect. In this article we will take an in depth look at what is the difference between photovoltaic and solar panels. This in a nutshell is when sunlight creates electricity in these compounds or materials by exciting the outer electrons in the atoms shaking or knocking them loose. While a single photovoltaic cell is able to convert sunlight into electricity on its own the panel is essential to combine and direct the energy output of numerous cells to your inverter and home.

Unlike csp which uses the sun s energy pv solar panels make use of the sun s light instead. A solar pv panel works in a way that allows light particles or photons to heat electrons from atoms which in turn generates a flow of electrical power. Although used interchangeably on your solar pv system these two are entirely different. Solar panels consist of smaller units which we also refer to as photovoltaic cells.

When it comes to dimensions 60 cell panels are usually built six cells wide and ten cells tall. 72 cell panels are also six cells wide but have an additional two rows of cells that make them a bit taller. 72 cell solar panels have more photovoltaic cells therefore they are larger than 60 cell panels. Photovoltaic cells are the main component that makes up a solar panel while solar panels are a vital component that makes up a solar system.

In other words photovoltaics is the direct conversion of light into electricity.