What are photovoltaics (PV)? What are the environmental costs and benefits of photovoltaic systems?

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What are photovoltaics (PV)? What are the environmental costs and benefits of photovoltaic systems?



- Photovoltaics is a technology that converts sunlight directly into electricity. Photovoltaics are the world's fastest growing source of energy, with a growth rate of about 35% per year.

- Electricity is produced when sunlight strikes the cell. The different electronic properties of the layers cause electrons to flow out of the cell through electrical wires.

- Uses for photovoltaics include supplying power to satellites and space vehicles and commercial uses such as a power source in remote areas for electrical equipment such as water-level sensors, meteorological stations, and emergency telephones.

- It is emerging as a significant contributor to developing countries that do not have the financial abilities to build large central power plants that burn fossil fuels (cost of less than $400 per household). This is convenient for homes mostly in villages that are not linked to a countrywide electrical grid.

- Another technique involve solar roofing tiles that use the roof of a building as a platform for a power plant. Panels of solar cells can also be placed on walls or window glass. -> these techniques are being put in place in Germany, India, and the U.S.

- A large photovoltaic power plant is located in Tucson, Arizona, at the Springerville Generating Station. This plant produces 24 MW with photovoltaics.

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