Today, solar technology is becoming widespread. The global solar power capacity has already extended to 1,200 GW in 2024, which clearly indicates a 10X increase from the last decade. In the growing sector of renewable energy, the terms ‘solar panels’ and ‘photovoltaic panels’ are often used interchangeably. However, there are major differences between these two types of panels, and it becomes quintessential to understand these differences. In this blog, we will discuss the differences between solar panels and photovoltaic panels in detail.
Photovoltaic Panels vs Solar Panels – What’s the Difference?
Today, solar technology is becoming widespread. The global solar power capacity has already extended to 1,200 GW in 2024, which clearly indicates a 10X increase from the last decade. In the growing sector of renewable energy, the terms ‘solar panels’ and ‘photovoltaic panels’ are often used interchangeably.
However, there are major differences between these two types of panels, and it becomes quintessential to understand these differences. In this blog, we will discuss the differences between solar panels and photovoltaic panels in detail.
What Is a Solar Panel?
Solar panel is a broad concept that refers to any panel designed to harness and capture the sun’s energy.
Solar panels are installed on the rooftops, on ground-mounted systems, or even integrated into building materials. Therefore, they are widely used across different sectors.
What Is a Photovoltaic Panel?
A photovoltaic panel is an advanced system curated to convert sunlight directly into electricity. This complete process is known as the photovoltaic effect, and it is an outstanding approach to using solar energy.
Usually, PV panels include a number of solar cells that are typically made of semiconductor materials. Whenever sunlight strikes these cells, it generates a particular flow of electrons, which generates direct current electricity, i.e., DC electricity.
Then, an inverter converts this DC into AC, that is, alternating current.
The Photovoltaic Effect
The photovoltaic effect is the very basic principle behind the working of photovoltaic panels that generate electricity from sun energy. It is a natural process that occurs when sunlight strikes particular materials, such as silicon. It, therefore, releases electrons.
When sunlight strikes the area of the solar cell, the energy from the photons is absorbed by the material of a semiconductor like silicon. Sunlight is usually made up of small energy packets called photons. This added energy allows electrons to move from their atoms. Thereafter, these electrons move and create an electric current. This whole process of the electricity flow is called the direct current, or DC.
In order to use electricity in homes and businesses, this direct current is passed with the help of an inverter. It then converts it into alternating current (AC), which is used by most of the appliances.
This effect makes PV panels a powerful and clean source of renewable energy and does not include any involvement of fuel. It is just about sunlight, semiconductor material, and smart engineering that gives green and clean energy!
Key Differences Between PV and Solar Panel
Though PV panels and solar panels harness energy from the sun, they are used for different purposes and work on particular principles.
Energy Conversion
PV panels generate electric power directly from sunlight using the photoelectric effect. When light shines on the cells, typically silicon, it knocks electrons loose, producing an electric current. This is the principal way in which clean, on-site electric power is created in a solar PV system.
Actually, some solar panels are hundreds of suns, not designed to turn sunlight into electricity, but into heat. These are known as solar thermal panels, which take that heat and use it to warm water or air for use in homes or businesses. Absolutely no electricity is produced in this case.
Applications
Solar panels are primarily used in solar water-heating systems, space-heating systems, or solar-cooking appliances. Such systems are more typical of older renewable setups or regions that prioritize saving gas or electric water heating with less expensive air-source heating for a larger portion of the region.
PV panels are an extremely versatile module used in various projects, including residential rooftops and commercial building rooftops. They produce power to light your home, run your appliances, charge your electric vehicle, and much more.
System Elements
Photovoltaic systems consist of solar panels, inverters (which convert DC to AC electricity), mounting structures, and, occasionally, energy storage, typically in batteries. The idea is for them to produce and deliver clean power.
Solar thermal systems utilize collector panels, pumps, heat exchangers, and insulated tanks to capture sunlight and convert it into heat. It is then used in homes and buildings for water or air heating.
Material Composition
Solar panels are made up of special materials to absorb sunlight and convert it into heat. These materials include tempered glass, silicon-based solar cells, and aluminum frames. These materials are used for long-term results and excellent heat absorption, which are required for high thermal efficiency.
Photovoltaic panels generate electricity via photovoltaic processes. These panels are made up of materials like crystalline silicon or thin-film semiconductors that offer higher-grade energy conversion.
Efficiency and Performance
Solar panels include all types of technologies to harness solar energy.
Photovoltaic panels are those that convert Solar energy directly into electricity with the help of a photovoltaic process. Thermal panels get 60–70% thermal efficiency, while PV panels offer 22–24% electrical conversion efficiency.
Cost
Solar panels are available in different price ranges. The initial investment in this can be majorly varied as per the technology type you choose. An option with crystalline silicon is one of the most expensive alternatives. But it is also the best option due to its longevity and high-class efficiency.
Photovoltaic panels are available at a narrow price. The initial cost of these panels can be higher, but their effectiveness brings huge energy savings over time. This brings an exceptional return on investment while offering more assistance and a brighter future.
Installation Requirements
Photovoltaic systems include mounting interconnections as well as a specific location to house the inverter. Roof space and sun exposure play a vital role in increasing its efficiency and achieving maximum output.
Solar panel installation need particular considerations, which we can call space efficiency. These types of panels require spaces that will have sun exposure and an ample amount of space for the complete system.
Maintenance
Solar panels are typically used for heating water and require less maintenance. Regular inspection of the system to see if there are any major issues and making sure that the panels are clean helps in maximizing the output while extending their life span.
Photovoltaic panels convert sunlight directly into electricity and, therefore, require more attention in terms of maintenance. There should be periodic checks on the electrical wiring as well as inverters to get optimal performance.
Environmental Influence
Even though solar panels and photovoltaic panels offer major environmental benefits, there are some critical concepts that should be understood.
Solar panels are majorly used for heating applications that reduce dependency on fossil fuels. This controls greenhouse gas emissions to a greater extent.
On the other hand, photovoltaic panels generate clean electricity without creating pollution and contribute hugely to the reduction of the carbon footprint.
Durability
Both of these panels are famous for their outstanding durability and lifespan, which makes them a major investment in terms of reliable and sustainable energy solutions.
Solar panels usually have warranties of 25 years.
Photovoltaic panels usually offer a similar time range of warranties that deliver effective performance with time. This expanded utility makes sure that your initial investment is compensated for majorly by long-term energy savings.
The Goods & Bads of Photovoltaic Panels & Solar Panels
Firstly, let’s get to know the pros and cons of photovoltaic and solar thermal panels before choosing one. Each kind has its advantages and drawbacks, depending on how you plan to use solar energy. Here is a brief guide to what works and what doesn’t for each of them.
Photovoltaic (PV) Panels
Here are the pros and cons of PV panels.
The Good –
- Generate clean electricity from sunlight.
- It could lower your electricity costs each month.
- Great for houses, offices, and remote areas.
- Long-lasting (up to 25–30 years).
The Bad –
- Higher upfront cost.
- Require sunlight to function optimally (less effective in the shade)
- Include electrical parts or components such as inverters and wiring.
- It might require wiping down and tuning once in a while.
Solar Thermal Panels
Look at the advantages and disadvantages of solar thermal panels in a quick manner.
The Good –
- Good for low-cost hot water
- Simple setup with fewer parts
- Less maintenance required
- Highly effective in transducing light to heat
The Bad –
- Only works for heat (but it can’t generate electricity)
- Less suited to changing energy uses today
- Works best in sunny climates
- It is not great for long-term savings like PV panels
Real-World Usage – When Each Term Appears?
Having clarity in the usage of the terms solar panel and photovoltaic panel can be achieved by understanding their practical use in real-life situations, particularly when one is going through a product specification, tender, or research paper.
The two terms are usually applied in actual real-world situations as follows:
| Use Case | Common Term Used | Explanation |
| Home installations (electricity) | Solar Panels | Solar panels are what most installers and consumers call PV systems. |
| Government tenders & Policies | Photovoltaic Modules / PV Panels | Technical literature favors PV modules for accuracy and compliance. |
| Product datasheets | Photovoltaic Panels | Specs are often listed under the word ‘photovoltaic’ or ‘PV modules.’ |
| Scientific and technical reports | Photovoltaic Panels | Research papers and technical studies always use ‘photovoltaic’ for accuracy. |
| Marketing and consumer websites | Solar Panels | ‘Solar panels’ is the preferred, search-friendly term on public platforms. |
| Thermal heating systems | Solar Thermal Panels | When referring to systems that heat water, ‘solar thermal’ is used. |
What does this table exactly mean?
Simply knowing where the term ‘solar panel’ is used and in what context can reduce confusion when reading product specifications, tenders, or academic papers.
Product Listings & Marketing
A solar panel is a popular term among customers. It’s more search-engine-friendly and user-friendly for the general population, which is why mainstream marketers love the word.
Scientific Literature
The term ‘photovoltaic’ is used by researchers and developers in academic papers, white papers, and technical studies. This is because ‘photovoltaic’ is the correct term for the process that turns sunlight into electricity.
Solar Installers & Field Experts
When speaking with customers, installation and field service professionals usually refer to ‘solar panels.’ It is plain and familiar, and it works in nontechnical conversations.
Policy & Tender Documents
Terms like ‘photovoltaic modules’ or ‘PV systems’ are frequently used in compliance documents, government tenders, or for applying for subsidies, simply to adhere to standardized wording. These are the more formal and technically correct terms in official publications.
Side-by-Side Comparison – Solar Panels vs Photovoltaic Panels
Here is a detailed yet quick snapshot of photovoltaic panels vs solar panels.
| Feature | Solar Panels | Photovoltaic Panels |
| Definition | A general term for panels that capture sunlight for heat or electricity. | Specifically, it refers to panels that convert sunlight into electricity. |
| Technology Type | It can refer to thermal panels or PV panels, depending on context. | Always indicates PV systems generating electricity on the basis of the PV effect. |
| Energy Output | Typically produces heat in thermal solar systems. | Generates direct current (DC) electricity using photovoltaic cells. |
| Common Usage | Widely used in marketing, consumer conversations, and residential installs. | Applied to technical documentation, tenders, education literature, and specification sheets. |
| Applications | Water heating, space heating, or general references to solar power systems. | Electricity generation for homes, businesses, solar farms, or the grid. |
| Core Components | Absorber plates, heat transfer fluid, pipes, and tanks (in thermal systems). | PV cells, glass panels, inverters, mounting systems, and wiring. |
| Installation Sites | Rooftops, solar heaters, solar cookers. | Rooftops, ground-mount systems, building-integrated PV (BIPV). |
| Efficiency | Up to 60–70% thermal efficiency for heating applications | Typically, 22–24% electrical conversion efficiency. |
| Material Composition | Dark-coated absorbers, metal tubes, and tempered glass for thermal systems. | Crystalline silicon, thin-film semiconductors, and anti-reflective coatings. |
| Terminology Source | Used commonly by installers, retailers, and consumers. | Preferred by engineers, researchers, manufacturers, and policy writers. |
| Maintenance Needs | Lower (especially in thermal systems); periodic fluid checks, surface cleaning. | Slightly higher and includes inverter checks as well as electrical checks. |
| Environmental Benefit | Reduces the use of gas or electric heaters. | Reduces fossil-fuel-based electricity use along with carbon footprint. |
| Average Lifespan | 20–25 years on thermal panels. | 25–30 years with warranties on PV modules. |
| Real-World Usage | Mostly seen on sales brochures, e-commerce sites, and installer ads. | It can be easily noticed in government tenders, warranty documents, and spec sheets. |
Key summary of the comparison
- In everyday language, both terms are frequently used interchangeably, particularly when referring to electricity-generating systems.
- However, ‘photovoltaic panels’ is the more accurate term when referring to panels that generate electricity.
- ‘Solar panels’ may refer to either PV or thermal panels as per the context.
Why Does It Matter to Understand the Difference Between Solar Panels and Photovoltaic Panels?
You might be wondering whether ‘solar panels’ and ‘photovoltaic panels’ are the same terms, and if it matter, why should we understand the difference between them?
Well, the answer is yes! These two terms have subtle differences between them, and below are the reasons why you must understand the difference between them.
You shop smarter
Whenever you are buying solar panels for your business or home, most of the websites, as well as installers, will say solar panels. But if you read photovoltaic modules somewhere in the technical specifications or brochures, you will come to know that it has the same meaning.
Consider an example. Rooftop installers may install high-efficiency solar panels. However, on the other hand, a product sheet from the manufacturer may discuss PV module efficiency. But both of these have the same meaning.
Helpful for professionals and students
If you are working in a renewable energy company or studying engineering in renewable energy, then you will see the word photovoltaic in your research papers or in technical discussions. Understanding that it means solar panels will keep the concepts simple and easy for you.
Assists in understanding tenders and policies
Government schemes, as well as solar tenders, usually use terms like photovoltaic modules or PV systems. Having these terms in mind helps you follow the rules and complete the applications properly.
For example, MNRE tender guidelines may have a statement like – ‘ Only ALMM-listed photovoltaic modules are permitted.’
Eases certifications and technical documents
Safety certificate installation manuals, as well as warranties, usually use ‘PV Panel’ and not ‘Solar Panel.’ Therefore, understanding the basic differences in the terms helps you stay informed and away from confusion.
Finally, understanding both terms helps you avoid any major mistakes and saves you time while helping you make smarter and quicker decisions in buying, studying, or installing solar panels.
Conclusion
Keenly understanding the differences between solar panels and photovoltaic panels is essential to make accurate decisions about investing in solar energy.
Whether you require electricity, heating, or both, solar technology can meet your requirements and is sustainable as well as effective.
By selecting the particular type of solar panel for your specific use, you can improve and maximize the advantages of Solar energy while contributing to a greener future.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Is there a difference between photovoltaic and solar panels?
Yes. Though these terms can be used interchangeably, there is a subtle difference between them. The word ‘photovoltaic’ is defined as the creation of energy, such as electricity, from the sun. ‘Solar panel’ is more commonly used, especially in marketing and everyday conversation.
Q2. Why do some papers say ‘PV’ and others use ‘solar’?
It depends on the audience. Many technical documents, research papers, or government tenders will use ‘PV’ or the even more accurate ‘photovoltaic.’ Installers, retailers, and people on the street, on the other hand, think “solar panel” is easier to understand, and it is they who choose to call it a ‘solar panel.’
Q3. Does it have photovoltaic cells that make up the solar panel?
Yes. A solar panel consists of many PV cells. These cells are the ones that genuinely turn sunlight into electricity.
Q4. Are all solar panels photovoltaic?
Yes, in most common use. When people are talking about ‘solar panels,’ they are generally referring to photovoltaic panels that produce electricity. However, there are also solar thermal panels, which harness sunlight to heat water, although these are distinct from, and less often referred to as, ‘solar panels’ today.
