Solar PV (photovoltaic) systems generate electricity when sunlight falls on solar panels which are normally made of crystalline silicon and mounted on the roof of the home or other building. Although a great deal of energy is consumed in the manufacture of PV systems, one installed they should continue to produce virtually free electricity for up to 20 years. - Description added by: www.microchap.info

Electricity is fundamental to modern societies. It is the backbone to nearly all other technologies and we use it daily in lighting, appliances, communications and healthcare. Currently most electricity is generated in centralised, large-scale power stations fuelled by fossil fuels, uranium (nuclear power) or through renewable or alternative energy sources such as wind or hydro-electric power. It is becoming increasingly clear that we need to secure long-term, cost-effective and sustainable alternatives to fossil fuel power stations to cover both current demand, and future growth. There is an urgent need for open debate and consensus on the future of electricity generation as decisions are being made now that will still need to be in place in thirty years time, when the world might look radically different from how it does now. - Description added by: David Lockie