Defined term
Photovoltaics
Photovoltaics is the conversion of solar radiation into electricity using semiconductor solar cells.
Definition
Most residential solar panels are photovoltaic modules. They produce direct-current electricity, which an inverter converts into alternating-current electricity for home use or grid export.
PV output depends on sunlight, module orientation, shade, temperature, inverter limits, and system losses. Those production assumptions are the physical side of a solar savings estimate.