Solar photovoltaic (PV) technology converts sunlight directly into electricity using solar cells. These cells are typically made of semiconductor materials, such as silicon, which create an electric field when exposed to sunlight. When sunlight hits the solar panels, it knocks electrons loose from their atoms, generating a flow of electricity. Solar PV systems can range from small rooftop installations for individual homes to large-scale solar farms that feed electricity into the grid. They are a key component of renewable energy systems and are widely used to generate clean, sustainable electricity.