Did you know that 55% of the world’s new renewable energy is now solar?

You may have heard the terms “photovoltaic” and “solar panel” used interchangeably, but what do they actually mean?

Solar energy is becoming more popular every day, but there are still a lot of people who are confused about the difference between photovoltaics and solar panels.

But don’t worry. Keep reading to find out what are photovoltaic cells and the differences between photovoltaic vs solar panel so you can make the best choice for your needs!

Cost

The cost of photovoltaic panels is often a deterrent for homeowners considering to go green. However, it is important to weigh the initial cost of photovoltaic panels against the long-term savings that they can provide.

In most cases, the upfront cost of photovoltaic panels will be offset by the savings on electricity bills over time. In addition, federal and state incentives can help to reduce the cost of photovoltaic panels.

As a result, photovoltaic panels are a viable option for many homeowners who are looking to save money on their energy bills.

Efficiency

Photovoltaic panels are also generally more efficient than solar panels. This means that they are able to convert more of the sun’s energy into electricity.

The higher efficiency of photovoltaic panels is due to their ability to capture a wider range of the sun’s light. Solar panels can only capture visible light, while photovoltaic panels can also capture infrared and ultraviolet light.

As a result, photovoltaic panels are able to generate more electricity per square foot than solar panels.

For this reason, photovoltaic panels are a better choice for those looking to maximize the efficiency of their solar power system.

Durability

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing between photovoltaic and solar panels is durability. Photovoltaic panels are typically more durable than solar panels, due to their more durable materials.

For instance, the glass used in photovoltaic panels is tempered, meaning that it is less likely to break or crack.

Appearance

Photovoltaic panels generally have a more polished appearance than solar panels. This is because they are made with more expensive materials and often have a glass or metal frame.

Weight

Heavyweight Solar panels are typically made with more dense materials than their photovoltaic counterparts. This means that they require more support, which in turn makes them heavier.

While this may seem like a disadvantage, the extra weight can actually be helpful in some situations. For example, if you live in an area with high winds, the extra weight will help to keep your solar panels in place.

In addition, heavyweight solar panels are less likely to be damaged by hail or other forms of severe weather. As a result, they may have a longer lifespan than lighter panels.

Photovoltaic vs Solar Panel: Which One Wins?

Photovoltaic cells vs solar panels may seem like they are one and the same. But there are some key differences between them.

We’ve outlined those differences for you here so that you can make an informed decision about which type of solar energy is best for your needs.

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