ABSTRACT
Photovoltaics (PV) is the term used to describe the solar technologies that convert sunlight into electricity. It is common to use the term solar photovoltaics shortened to solar PV or just PV. This chapter explains how solar PV cells and modules work and introduces the key ratings which are used to measure the energy output of cells and modules. It also shows the reader how to carry out simple measurements with a multimeter. The so-called IV curve is then explained together with how energy output is affected by different conditions such as temperature and radiation. The chapter concludes with an overview of the main PV technologies used within the pico-solar sector, price trends and a look at innovations in PV technology.
