Basics of Photovoltaic Technology: 2026 Tri-State Solar Guide
Understanding the basics of photovoltaic technology is essential for homeowners in Pennsylvania and Delaware who want to take control of their utility bills. While the physics can get complex, the goal of solar technology is simple: to transform sunlight into usable power for your home or business.
We specialize in adapting these global photovoltaic systems to the specific climate challenges of the Mid-Atlantic.
We believe that understanding how solar panels actually work is the first step toward energy independence. We specialize in adapting these global photovoltaic systems to the specific climate challenges of the Mid-Atlantic.
Why the Basics of Photovoltaic Technology Matter for PA Homeowners
Whether you’re coming to TerraSol Energies for residential or commercial solar power services, you’ll be getting high-level products using the same technology. This area is known as solar photovoltaic technology, or a PA solar panel system.
You probably know that this system can save you money and can save valuable energy for the environment. Do you know exactly how it works from a scientific standpoint, though?
Many people think you need scorching desert heat to produce electricity, but solar energy actually thrives in the cooler, clearer air of Pennsylvania winters. The basic unit of any system is the cell.
When sunlight strikes the surface of solar photovoltaic cells, it excites electrons to create electricity. This is known as the photovoltaic effect.
The National Renewable Energy Laboratory has shown that modern silicon cells are incredibly efficient even in northern latitudes. In a typical solar PV system, multiple PV cells are linked together to form photovoltaic modules. These PV modules are then grouped into PV arrays on your roof using specialized mounting systems.
It’s actually probably simpler than you think. Let’s look at the roots of photovoltaic technology, plus how it’s advanced to the modern age.
Read the article: How to Maximize Your Solar Power System
The PV Effect
The entire point of solar power is to convert sunlight directly into electricity that can be used for a variety of applications. Solar cells are also called photovoltaic cells – this is a name that comes from the process of converting light (photons) to electricity (voltage), hence the initials.
As such, this conversion process is called the PV effect. The PV effect was first discovered in 1954. You can read more about the milestones in the history of solar energy to see how far we've come from those early Bell Telephone labs.
Scientists working at Bell Telephone discovered that silicon, an element commonly found in sand, creates an electric charge when it’s exposed to direct sunlight. Before long, solar cells were being used to power all sorts of vital areas, including space satellites.
1st and 2nd Generation Cells
Most traditional solar cells are made out of silicon. They’re usually flat-plate and are typically the most efficient cells. Second-generation cells are made from either amorphous silicon or non-silicon materials like cadmium telluride, and they’re called thin-film solar cells for this reason.
They use very thin layers of semiconductor materials, and are very flexible – they can double as rooftop shingles and tiles, or glazing for skylights.
Newer Solar Cells
Newer solar cells, or third-generation cells, are being made from several new non-silicon materials. These include solar inks and printing press technologies, solar dyes, and conductive plastics.
While these are exciting, they are often still in the testing phase compared to the reliable crystalline silicon panels used in most residential solar installations.
In some cases, they use plastic lenses or mirrors to focus sunlight onto a very small piece of high-efficiency PV material. These cases are generally limited to the sunniest parts of the country due to cost concerns.
Read the article: 5 Facts You Didn't Know About Solar
How Solar Works in the Tri-State Area
In our region, system performance is impacted by seasonal shading and cloud cover. However, solar PV technology has advanced so that PV panels can still generate electricity from diffuse light on overcast days.
If you've ever wondered about performance during a typical rainy week in West Chester, check out our guide on how solar works when it's not sunny.
Most solar installations in Chester County are grid-tied PV systems. This means that the electricity produced by your solar panels first powers your home. If you have excess energy, it is sent back to the electrical grid, often earning you credits.
This flow of electrical energy is managed by an inverter, which converts the DC electricity from your panels into the alternating current used by your appliances.
Comparing Solar Panel Efficiency and Types
Not all photovoltaic materials are equal. When planning solar construction projects, choosing the right PV technology is vital for long-term ROI. Choosing the right technology is vital for long-term ROI and minimizing the need for frequent solar panel maintenance.
| Feature | Monocrystalline (Recommended for PA) | Polycrystalline | Thin-Film |
| Solar Panel Efficiency | High (17-22%+) | Moderate (15-17%) | Lower (10-13%) |
| Space Required | Low (Best for small roofs) | High | Highest |
| Performance in Heat | Excellent | Good | Moderate |
| Best Use Case | Residential PV installations | Large commercial lots | Building integrated photovoltaics |
Financial and Environmental Impact
Investing in renewable energy is a strategic financial move for your property’s bottom line. While installation costs can be a hurdle, various financial incentives and the decreasing cost of photovoltaic modules have made solar photovoltaic systems more accessible than ever.
Increasing your installed capacity significantly reduces your carbon footprint. Unlike traditional energy sources, which release carbon dioxide, solar energy provides a clean way to supply electricity.
Read the article: Comparing the True Costs of Solar - Efficiency vs. ROI
The electricity generation capacity of your roof can often cover 100% of your needs, effectively turning your home into a mini power plant.
Interested in learning more about how solar power works, or want to find out about how our company can help you streamline your energy concerns? Speak to the experts at TerraSol Energies today.
You can request a custom solar proposal from our experts. So that’s the basics of photovoltaic technology that you should know.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do solar panels generate electricity during Pennsylvania winters?
Contrary to popular belief, solar panels do not need heat to function; they need light. In fact, solar technology often performs more efficiently in the cooler, clearer air of Pennsylvania and Delaware winters. Modern photovoltaic cells are designed to capture "diffuse light," meaning they can still generate power on overcast or gray days common in the Mid-Atlantic.
Why is monocrystalline technology recommended for residential roofs?
As shown in our efficiency comparison, monocrystalline panels offer the highest efficiency (17–22%) and require the least space. For homeowners in the Tri-State area with limited roof space, monocrystalline offers the best return on investment and superior performance across various weather conditions.
What does a solar inverter do?
The solar panels on your roof produce Direct Current (DC) electricity. However, your home appliances and the local power grid use Alternating Current (AC). The inverter acts as the "brain" of the system, converting that DC energy into usable AC power for your lights, HVAC, and electronics.
What happens if my solar panels produce more power than I use?
Most installations in our region are grid-tied systems. When your panels produce excess energy (like during a sunny afternoon), that power is sent back to the electrical grid. In Pennsylvania and Delaware, this often earns you credits on
