Photovoltaic Panels vs Solar Panels: What''s the Real Difference?
Confused between photovoltaic panels and solar panels? Discover key differences, benefits, and which one''s right for you with Intersolar''s expert guide.
Solar thermal panels have a higher conversion efficiency (70–90%), but photovoltaic panels offer more flexible usage since they produce electricity. What lasts longer: photovoltaic or solar thermal panels? Photovoltaic panels typically last 25 to 50 years, while solar thermal panels last around 20 to 30 years.
This is, however, where the similarities end because solar thermal energy is absorbed by the two systems for completely different purposes. Photovoltaic panels are installed for the conversion of thermal energy into electricity, while solar panels convert solar radiation into heat. This is why these solutions do not compete with each other.
But they're not quite the same thing. Here's the truth: all photovoltaic panels are solar panels, but not all solar panels are photovoltaic. That's where most people get confused, and it's exactly why we're writing this blog.
Here's where it gets interesting. Thermal panels are actually more efficient when it comes to converting sunlight into usable heat. We're talking 70% to 90% efficiency. Photovoltaic panels, on the other hand, typically run at 15% to 25% efficiency – but don't let that fool you.
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