The solar cell is the heart of any photovoltaic system and plays an essential role in converting sunlight into clean, renewable electricity.
Although small in size, these structures are responsible for transforming the way we produce and consume energy.
With technologies that already exceed 25% efficiency in the laboratory, understanding their characteristics, types and applications can make all the difference when planning an efficient and economical solar system.
In this guide, you will discover how solar cells work, what their variations are and how to choose the most suitable one for each need. Happy reading!
What is a solar cell?
The solar cell, also known as a photovoltaic cell, is the fundamental component of photovoltaic solar power generation systems.
It is responsible for directly converting sunlight into electricity, using semiconductor materials, such as silicon.
Each cell has a structure composed of layers that create an internal electric field.
When grouped together, they form solar modules, or solar panels, as they are popularly known.
This device is essential for transforming solar radiation, a clean, renewable and abundant energy source, into a usable form of electrical energy.
With technological advancement, solar cells have become increasingly efficient and affordable, playing a crucial role in the energy transition and combating climate change.
How does the solar cell work?
Solar cells work based on the photovoltaic effect, a physical phenomenon that converts sunlight into electricity.
This process begins when photons (particles of light) hit the surface of the cell, usually made of silicon.
The energy of the photons excites the electrons in the atoms of the semiconductor material, causing them to move and generate a direct electric current (DC).
This current is collected by metal contacts and directed for direct use in electrical devices or converted into alternating current (AC) by an inverter, allowing its use in the conventional electrical grid.
The yield of this process depends on the efficiency of the cell, solar intensity and factors such as temperature and tilt angle of the modules.
With the evolution of technology, the performance of solar cells has improved significantly, contributing to the dizzying growth of the sector.
In 2023, the world added 449 GW of solar power to global capacity, a number that jumped to 597 GW in 2024.
This has seen the sector reach 2,2 terawatts (TW) of installed capacity by the end of 2024, a remarkable feat considering it took almost 70 years to reach the first TW and just two to double it.
This advancement is the result of cost reduction, versatility of applications (from homes to solar plants) and a global supply chain that has become more accessible and efficient.
What is the difference between a cell, module and solar panel?
Although the terms “cell” and “module” are often used interchangeably, each represents a distinct level in the structure of photovoltaic systems:
- Solar cell: is the basic unit of photovoltaic generation. Each cell is approximately the size of a human hand and is composed of semiconductor materials, such as silicon. It is where the direct conversion of sunlight into electricity occurs;
- solar module: also known as a “solar panel”, it is made up of a set of solar cells electrically connected and encapsulated with glass and insulating materials for protection against the environment. A typical module has 60 to 72 cells.
Understanding this difference is essential for designing correctly sized systems, calculating energy production, and planning proper maintenance.
What are the main types of solar cells?
With technological advances in the photovoltaic sector, different types of solar cells have emerged, each with distinct characteristics in terms of efficiency, cost, durability and specific applications. Find out more below.
Monocrystalline Silicon (Mono-Si)
Monocrystalline silicon cells are manufactured from a single crystal of pure silicon, which provides a uniform structure and greater electron mobility.
This uniformity gives them high efficiency, generally between 18% and 22%, as well as good performance even in low radiation conditions.
Visually, they are identified by their dark color and rounded edges.
Although they are more expensive compared to other technologies, they are ideal for installations with limited space, where the highest possible yield per square meter is sought.
Polycrystalline Silicon (Poly-Si)
Produced from multiple fused silicon crystals, polycrystalline cells have a bluish coloration and a visibly fragmented structure.
Although historically they were more economical, today their price competitiveness has been surpassed by the advance and wide supply of monocrystalline silicon, which dominates the global market.
Thus, polycrystalline modules are in commercial disuse and are found less frequently in new installations.
Thin-Film
Thin-film cells use semiconductor materials such as cadmium telluride (CdTe) or copper indium gallium disulfide (CIGS) applied to thin surfaces such as glass, metal or plastic.
They are flexible, lightweight and discreet, making them an attractive option for architectural applications, facades and mobile projects.
However, their average efficiency is lower, between 10% and 13%, and degradation over time can be greater. Even so, their thermal performance is superior to that of silicon cells.
Organic Cells (OPV)
Organic solar cells are composed of organic materials (carbon-based) and have advantages such as lightness, flexibility, transparency and low production costs.
They enable the creation of innovative applications, such as solar surfaces on clothing, windows and wearable devices.
However, its efficiency is still quite limited (generally below 10%) and its durability is reduced, which restricts its large-scale commercial use.
Currently, this technology is most explored in academic environments and experimental projects.
Perovskite Cells
Perovskite cells have emerged as one of the most promising innovations in the sector.
Based on perovskite compounds (hybrid crystal structure), these cells have achieved efficiencies above 25% in laboratory tests, directly competing with silicon technologies.
Among its main attractions are the low manufacturing cost, flexibility and possibility of being applied to different surfaces.
However, they still face challenges regarding thermal stability, degradation with humidity and commercial scale production.
How to choose the ideal solar cell?
Choosing the ideal solar cell depends on a careful analysis of several technical, economic and structural factors.
The first point to consider is the space available for installation. Projects with reduced area, such as urban homes, tend to benefit from more efficient cells, such as monocrystalline silicon, which generate more energy per square meter.
Installations in large areas, such as farms or industrial warehouses, also tend to use monocrystalline silicon modules, due to their greater efficiency and the competitive price achieved in recent years.
The high energy density of mono modules allows for maximizing generation without compromising so much physical space, something that is especially important on properties where land use is strategic, such as in agricultural areas.
Another important aspect is the available budget. Higher efficiency cells generally have a higher cost, but deliver greater energy generation over their useful life. This directly impacts the return on investment (ROI).
Furthermore, the region's climate influences cell performance. Very hot environments or environments with a high incidence of shading may require technologies with better thermal performance or greater shade tolerance.
Finally, it is essential to consider the module supplier, quality certifications, guarantees offered and the technical support available.
Consulting a specialized designer or integrator is essential to ensure the most appropriate choice for the installation profile.
Does solar cell require regular maintenance?
Yes, although solar cells are robust and low-maintenance devices, a complete photovoltaic system requires regular care to maintain its optimal performance over the years.
Preventative maintenance mainly includes periodic cleaning of solar modules, as the accumulation of dust, leaves or debris can significantly reduce light capture and, consequently, energy generation.
In addition, it is recommended to carry out annual visual inspections and electrical tests to check the condition of connections, cables, inverters and fixing structures.
Electronic components such as inverters have a shorter lifespan than cells and may need to be replaced after 10 to 15 years.
Non-visible failures, such as micro-cracks or material degradation, can also impact system performance and go unnoticed without a specialized technical assessment.
Therefore, having a professional maintenance and monitoring plan is a recommended practice for both residential systems and large solar plants.
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Solar Cell FAQ
Questions about the performance, cost, durability and efficiency of solar cells are common among consumers and professionals.
Below, we answer the most frequently asked questions based on technical data and market insights. Check it out below!
How much do photovoltaic cells cost?
The cost of a photovoltaic cell varies depending on the technology, production volume and import conditions.
In today's market, the price per watt-peak (Wp), the standard measure of module power, can vary between R$0,80 and R$2,50 for the cellular component. However, this value is only a part of the total investment.
The final cost of a photovoltaic system also involves modules, inverters, fixing structure, cabling and labor.
For small residential systems, the total cost can vary between R$12 and R$25, while commercial or industrial projects require budgets proportional to the scale and complexity of the installation.
How long does a solar cell last?
Solar cells are designed to operate for 25 to 30 years, maintaining between 80% and 90% of their original efficiency after that period.
Durability is related to the quality of the materials used, manufacturing processes and operating conditions, such as exposure to humidity, dust, thermal variations and UV radiation.
Established brands in the market offer performance and product guarantees that vary from 10 to 25 years, which gives the consumer greater security.
With preventive maintenance and good installation practices, it is common for modules over 30 years old to still be in operation.
How efficient is a photovoltaic cell?
The efficiency of a solar cell indicates the percentage of solar energy that is converted into electricity.
This index varies depending on the technology.
Conclusion
The solar cell is the heart of any photovoltaic system. Knowing its characteristics, types, performance and useful life is essential for those who want to invest consciously and efficiently in solar energy.
In addition to enabling savings on your electricity bill, these technologies contribute to the sustainability and value of properties and developments.
Whether for residential, commercial or industrial use, choosing a suitable solar cell from reliable suppliers ensures a greater return on investment.
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