Although fossil fuels still dominate our planet today, renewable energy is making its way into the markets of all countries around the world. Renewable energy is that which does not pollute the environment, which does not run out, and which is capable of harnessing the energy of elements of the earth and surroundings, such as the sun, wind, and water, among others, to generate electricity. Since fossil fuels are about to run out, renewable energy is the future.
Today we are going to talk in depth about photovoltaic solar energy. This energy is perhaps the most widely used renewable energy in the world. Would you like to know how it works and the different uses it has?
Definition
Before we begin to describe its uses and properties, it is essential to clarify what photovoltaic solar energy is. Photovoltaic solar energy is that which is capable of harnessing energy from solar radiation and converting it into electricityThis is achieved by using semiconductor materials that generate an electric current when exposed to light.
This energy source is completely clean, as it does not generate greenhouse gas emissions or toxic substances during its process. In addition, it is a renewable energy, which means that its main source, the sun, will not run out for billions of years. To harness this energy, devices known as solarThese panels capture photons of light from solar radiation and convert them into electricity through a process known as the photovoltaic effect.
How is photovoltaic solar energy generated?
The process of generating photovoltaic solar energy starts with the capture of photons of sunlight using solar panels. These capture solar radiation and through the photovoltaic effect convert the light into electric current. Each solar panel is composed of Photo-voltaic cells, which are semiconductor materials (usually silicon) capable of absorbing the energy of photons and releasing electrons. These electrons, when moving, generate an electric current.
It is important to note that the output voltage of a photovoltaic cell is quite low (around 0,6 V). To increase the power of the system, these cells are connected in series forming a photovoltaic module, which is encapsulated in a structure resistant to humidity and inclement weather.
This process generates a direct current that, through current inverters, can be transformed into alternating current, allowing its use in homes and businesses.
Elements and performance
Solar panels are the devices where photovoltaic cells are captured. These panels have various uses, both at personal and business level. In fact, panel costs have decreased in recent years, and we can find standard installations that are around 7.000 Euros.
One of the main benefits of these systems is their easy installation and low maintenance. In addition, its useful life is considerably long, around 25-30 years, which allows the investment to be easily amortized.
However, the placement of the panels plays a crucial role in their performance. To maximize energy capture, the panels should be oriented where they receive the most hours of sunlight per day. The captured energy can then be stored in batteries for use at night or on cloudy days.
The performance of a solar photovoltaic installation will vary depending on the geography and the arrangement of the panels. In areas with more hours of sunshine, solar systems allow the investment to be recovered in approximately eight years, which leaves a considerable margin of time to make a profit.
Uses of photovoltaic solar energy
Photovoltaic systems connected to the grid
One of the main uses of photovoltaic solar energy is through systems connected to the electrical grid. These systems allow solar energy to be used to produce electricity that is fed into the grid. To achieve this, solar panels are used power inverters which transform the direct current generated by the panels into alternating current, compatible with the electrical grid.
Although the cost per kWh of solar energy is still somewhat higher compared to other energy sources, this difference has been significantly reduced in recent years thanks to cheaper technology and increased efficiency of panels. In many regions with abundant sunshine, photovoltaic energy is already competitive with other sources. Subsidies and public aid are key to making this option one of the most viable for many consumers.
Other uses of photovoltaic solar energy
Apart from its use for electricity production, solar photovoltaic energy has many more applications. Some of the most common are:
- Lighting: Ideal for providing light in public places such as roads, rest areas and rural areas.
- Signaling: It is frequently used in the road and maritime signalling sector to mark strategic points.
- Telecommunications: Many telecommunications repeater installations power their systems using solar photovoltaic energy.
- Agriculture: On farms and livestock farms, it is used for water pumping systems, power supply to milking systems, among others.
To expand this list, solar photovoltaic energy also has a critical relevance in rural electrification in isolated areas, allowing communities far from the electrical grids to have access to electricity in a clean and sustainable way. 
In short, photovoltaic solar energy is one of the best options to reduce dependence on polluting and non-renewable sources. Its easy installation and long lifespan have allowed more and more sectors, from industrial to rural, to adopt this type of energy as a viable, sustainable and economic solution.