Photovoltaic power plant solutions play a key role in the future of renewable energy. Learn how they are changing the global energy market!

The future of photovoltaics

Photovoltaics is not only key to a sustainable future, but already plays an increasingly important role in electricity generation. In this article, we explain exactly what photovoltaics is, how the technology works, and the physical principles by which sunlight is converted into electricity. We examine the fundamental elements of photovoltaic systems, how they function, and the types used in practice.

We also discuss how photovoltaic cells have developed over the past few decades, what makes a system more efficient, and which technological innovations – such as energy storage or digitalization – could shape the future of the industry. If you are interested in how a photovoltaic module works, the direction the market is heading, or how solar energy can be used efficiently for private or industrial purposes, you've come to the right place.

What is photovoltaic energy and how does it work?

The beginnings and basics of using photovoltaic energy: turning light into electricity

The basis of photovoltaic energy is the photovoltaic effect, discovered in 1839 by Edmond Becquerel. Despite his young age of only 19, Becquerel experimented with an electrolytic cell, immersing two platinum electrodes in an acid solution. When one of the electrodes was exposed to light, an electrical voltage and current were generated, marking the first documented instance of light being directly converted into electrical energy. This phenomenon, later known as the "Becquerel effect," laid the foundation for the development of modern photovoltaic technology. However, Becquerel's discovery did not immediately lead to practical applications, as the efficiency and understanding of the technology were still limited. It was only several decades later, with the development of semiconductor materials and silicon-based technologies, that it became possible to efficiently harness the photovoltaic effect for generating electrical energy.

The role of the photovoltaic cell and the photovoltaic module in the system

A photovoltaic cell, also called a solar cell, is a semiconductor device that directly converts the energy of sunlight into electricity. The most commonly used semiconductor material is silicon, which is treated in various ways to achieve the required electrical properties. When photons from sunlight strike the cell, they transfer their energy to electrons, which are thereby raised to a higher energy level and can move freely. This electron movement generates an electric current, which can be used via the cell's terminals. By connecting several such cells in series and parallel, solar modules are created. These panels form the basis of photovoltaic systems, which can generate large amounts of electrical energy.

How a photovoltaic system works, step by step

Light absorption : The photons of sunlight hit the surface of the photovoltaic cell, where they are absorbed by the semiconductor material.
Electron excitation : The energy of the photons is sufficient to raise the electrons in the semiconductor material to a higher energy level, allowing them to move freely.
Generation of an electric current : The electric field of the pn junction causes a directed movement of the electrons, which generates an electric current.
Conversion and Use : The resulting direct current (DC) is converted into alternating current (AC) using inverters, which is compatible with household and industrial electrical systems. The converted current can be used directly or fed into the power grid.

Types and main components of photovoltaic systems

The most important components of a photovoltaic solar system

Photovoltaic systems consist of several key components that together ensure the efficient conversion and use of solar energy. These components are described in detail below:

Solar cells (PV modules) : They form the basis of the system and convert the energy of sunlight directly into electrical energy through the photovoltaic effect.
Inverters : Inverters play a key role in the system, as they convert the direct current (DC) generated by the solar cells into alternating current (AC) that is compatible with household and industrial electrical systems.
Accumulators: Accumulators store excess energy that can be used later, for example at night or when the sky is cloudy.
Charge controller: These devices, in conjunction with the inverter, regulate the charging and discharging times as well as the current flowing to the batteries via the charge controller, thus preventing overcharging and damage to the batteries.
Mounting brackets: These devices serve to properly attach the solar modules and ensure their optimal tilt angle and stability.

The correct selection and coordination of these components is essential for the efficient operation and long-term reliability of the system.

Grid-connected, off-grid and hybrid solutions

The different types of photovoltaic systems are based on different operating principles and offer optimal solutions for different application areas:

Grid-tied systems : These systems are directly connected to the power grid and allow excess energy to be fed back into the grid. This allows users to reduce their electricity costs and, in certain cases, even generate revenue. However, it should be noted that these systems do not guarantee a power supply during power outages.
Off-grid systems: These systems are completely independent of the power grid and are typically used in remote or hard-to-reach locations. High-capacity batteries are required for energy storage, and additional power sources such as diesel generators are often used to ensure a reliable power supply.
Hybrid systems: Hybrid systems combine the advantages of grid-connected and off-grid systems. These systems can store energy in batteries and are simultaneously connected to the power grid. This allows users to benefit from greater flexibility and a secure power supply even during grid outages* (*provided a backup system is in place).

Choosing the right system depends on a number of factors, including geographical location, energy requirements, budget, and reliability needs. A thorough assessment of the advantages and disadvantages of the various systems is essential for successful long-term operation.

Development and future prospects of photovoltaic technology

Development of cell technologies and photovoltaic solar power plants

Photovoltaic technology has undergone significant development in recent decades, particularly in the area of cell technologies. In the 1980s, the efficiency of commercially available solar cells was less than 10%, while today's modules achieve an efficiency of almost 25%. Thanks to technological advancements, the power output of solar cells is continuously increasing , allowing for the generation of more energy even in smaller areas.

In addition to the ongoing development of cell technologies, solar parks and commercial solar installations are playing an increasingly important role in energy generation. High-performance solar power plants, which can have a capacity of several megawatts, are capable of generating significant amounts of electricity and thus contributing to the share of renewable energy sources in the power grid. These power plants often also use tracking systems that optimize the orientation of the panels according to the sun's path, thereby increasing production efficiency.

The future of the photovoltaic industry: efficiency, storage, digitalization

The future of the photovoltaic industry promises numerous innovations and technological breakthroughs. To further increase efficiency, researchers are developing new materials and cell structures that can efficiently utilize sunlight across multiple spectral ranges. The development of solar cell technology is currently focused primarily on heterojunction technology, which holds great promise but is still expensive. Perovskite-based solar cells are also a promising alternative, as they are less expensive to manufacture and allow for more flexible applications.

In the field of energy storage, the further development of battery technologies is of crucial importance. Lithium iron phosphate batteries have been one of the biggest breakthroughs in recent years (primarily for safety reasons), but new types of energy storage systems are also emerging that enable more efficient storage and use of generated energy, especially for balancing grid loads and increasing security of supply.

Digitalization and the integration of smart grids into photovoltaic systems will also play a crucial role in the future. The use of data analytics, artificial intelligence, and IoT (Internet of Things) technologies enables real-time monitoring, maintenance, and optimization of the systems, thereby increasing reliability and economic efficiency.

Summary: The role of photovoltaic systems in the energy world of the future

Today, the use of photovoltaics extends far beyond experimental installations: worldwide, it is becoming the primary energy source in a growing number of households and industrial facilities. Its operating principle – the direct conversion of sunlight into electrical energy – is both environmentally friendly and technologically mature. Photovoltaic cells and modules are becoming increasingly efficient, enabling them to generate the same or even more energy than before in ever smaller spaces.

Various system configurations – grid-connected, off-grid, and hybrid solutions – make it possible to find the optimal technology for every application and location. The combination of components such as inverters, batteries, and charge controllers ensures the stability and long-term operation of the system. The development of intelligent systems and energy storage solutions is making the achievement of energy sovereignty increasingly feasible.

The photovoltaic technology of the future goes beyond simply generating energy. In addition to increasing efficiency, issues of system integration, grid integration, and the advantages of digitalization, such as remote monitoring and predictive maintenance, are becoming increasingly important. The development of photovoltaic systems is not only a technological question, but also a driver of social and economic change. Through the interplay of energy independence, sustainability, and innovation, photovoltaics will become a key element of the energy system of the future.

FAQ – Questions about the function and development of photovoltaic systems

How does a hybrid photovoltaic system differ from a grid-connected system?

A grid-connected system immediately feeds unused energy into the power grid, but does not guarantee a power supply during a power outage. In contrast, a hybrid system has a battery, allowing it to bridge grid outages and optimize energy consumption and storage.

What role do inverters play in the efficiency of a photovoltaic system?

Inverters are not only responsible for converting electricity (DC → AC), but also for regulating the entire system. Modern devices like Huawei inverters continuously monitor grid parameters, track power output, and optimize production, while simultaneously providing protection against overload and backfeeding.

What are the advantages of using a tracking system in a solar power plant?

Solar tracking systems continuously monitor the sun's position, ensuring the panels are always at the optimal angle to sunlight. This can increase daily energy production by up to 15–25% compared to fixed systems, especially on long summer days and at lower latitudes.

How does the efficiency of photovoltaic cells change with different technologies?

The average efficiency of monocrystalline cells is currently around 20 to 22%. New technologies such as tandem or perovskite cells can achieve efficiencies of over 30% under laboratory conditions, which could revolutionize the solar power systems of the future.

What are the biggest challenges in the digitalization of photovoltaic systems?

Among the biggest challenges are data security, system interoperability, and real-time data processing. Furthermore, intelligent energy management requires advanced algorithms capable of predicting production, optimizing storage, and controlling system operation based on consumer habits.

source : https://shop.solar-kit.eu/de/blog/post/die-zukunft-der-photovoltaik-und-die-funktionsweise-des-systems