Photovoltaic (PV) solar panels convert sunlight into electricity. These panels are usually installed on the top of or near homes and commercial facilities where they have maximum exposure to the sun. PV systems are effective any time the sun is shining. When sunlight is intense and strikes a PV module directly, more electricity is produced.

Panels are becoming more common in urban and suburban areas as customers look to supplement their typical energy needs with alternative, renewable energy. Typically, one solar photovoltaic module cannot produce enough energy to power a home or business, so a number of modules or panels are grouped together to form a solar array.

The cells on photovoltaic solar panels absorb the heat and light of the sun and convert that solar energy into direct current (DC) electricity. The array then uses an inverter to convert the DC power into alternating current (AC) electricity, which is commonly used in households and businesses. This current can be used immediately or it may be stored.

In the case of solar farms, generated electricity is transmitted to users through a sophisticated distribution network. See Energy Delivery