 The term “photovoltaic” is a combination of “photo,” meaning light, and “voltaic,” meaning electricity. Solar panels are becoming common on rooftops in grid connected systems. Photovoltaic solar cells generate electricity when exposed to sunlight. Solar modules comprise many interconnected solar cells. Like computer chips, the majority of solar cells are built using silicon. The solar cell has the property of creating electric power when exposed to light. To enable this unique property, the silicon material and related components are carefully engineered for optimum performance. Some of the same processes developed for the electronics industry are used in the manufacturing of solar cells although the equipment is different.
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