Energy Balance

The energy balance of a photovoltaic system describes the relationship between the energy expended for the manufacture, installation, and operation of a system, and the energy produced by the system throughout its lifetime. It is a crucial factor in assessing the environmental friendliness and economic viability of solar power.

Manufacture and Installation

The production of solar modules is an energy-intensive process. In particular, the production of silicon, the main component of solar cells, requires significant amounts of energy. Additionally, the manufacture of frames, glass, and other components, as well as the transport to the construction site, incurs energy consumption. The installation of the system itself also requires energy for machinery, tools, and the transport of components.

Operation

During operation, a photovoltaic system consumes very little energy. Only for cleaning the modules and occasional maintenance work can a minor energy requirement arise.

Amortization and Overall Balance

The time it takes for a photovoltaic system to regenerate the energy required for its manufacture and installation is referred to as payback time. Modern solar modules typically pay themselves back within a few years. Over the entire lifespan of a system, it usually generates multiples of the energy invested in it.

Overall Balance: The energy balance of photovoltaic systems has become significantly more positive in recent years due to improved production processes and more efficient modules. The environmental friendliness of solar power is also greatly enhanced by the avoidance of CO2 emissions from electricity generation using fossil fuels.

Relevant Keywords: photovoltaics, solar module, payback time, silicon, CO2 emissions, renewable energies