Defined term
Photovoltaics
Photovoltaics is the conversion of sunlight into electricity using semiconductor materials in solar cells.
Also known as PV, photovoltaic power systems
foundation · Concept code GS-CONCEPT-002 · Last verified August 7, 2026
Definition and decision context
Definition
Photovoltaics is the conversion of sunlight into electricity using semiconductor materials in solar cells.
Verified August 7, 2026
Why it matters
Photovoltaic output is the physical starting point for estimating household solar production and savings.
Verified August 7, 2026
Concept relationships
Broader concepts
- Solar energyPublished concept
Narrower concepts
- Residential photovoltaic systemPublished concept
- Photovoltaic modulePublished concept
Affects
- Annual solar productionPublished concept
Primary sources
- U.S. Department of Energy: Solar Photovoltaic Technology Basics
Accessed August 7, 2026 · Source event date unavailable
Reviewed external concept mappings
- photovoltaics
Schema.org sameAs · Verified August 7, 2026