Solar Photovoltaic (PV) panels convert sunlight directly to DC electricity.  There are a wide variety of solar panels available on the market today.  It is a rapidly evolving field.  There are mature technologies from established companies with 25-year product guarantees.  Emerging technologies, such as roof integrated PV, where panels will be embedded into the metal roofing, are finding their way into the marketplace.

The three dominant technologies are single crystal, multi-crystal and thin-film/amorphous cells.  Systems generally fall into two categories, grid-tie and off-grid.  Grid-tie systems use an inverter to invert DC into AC power to be used in a home or business and feeds excess power back into the public power grid using it as storage. Off-grid systems (stand alone) power loads such as fans, pumps or lights.  Excess power is stored in a battery for later use and can also be tied into an inverter to convert the DC power to AC.

Recent rebates, Federal tax credits,  and the development of markets for Renewable Energy Credits are driving the market, not to mention the concern over global climate change.  However, the financial payback in most cases is still quite a bit longer than in the thermal systems.

For PV systems visit Schuco.com:
For a brochure outlining Schuco products: