A variety of solar cell applications are currently in use and the potential for a great deal more uses still exist. Currently, solar cell applications fall into four basic categories:
- Utility grid connected solar cell applications supplement the energy needs in both residential and commercial capacities.
- Grid interactive systems act to charge a battery back-up systems for a building or structure.
- Remote solar cell applications power buildings and structures that are far away from existing power grids.
- Consumer products applications include many products that were previously powered by batteries since it is both cleaner and renewable.
Utility grid connected applications include solar panels installed on the roofs of homes and businesses.
Grid interactive systems help ensure that a structure of a community never loses power.
Remote solar cell applications are far ranging and include cabins in the mountains, boats, electric signage on highways, and even outdoor lighting for decks and patios in order to reduce energy use.
A more recent development in solar cell applications, consumer products include children's toys that require electricity, or other novelty items such as ball caps with built-in fans.
Still, these uses just scratch the service of the potential solar cell applications that exist. Any business with a large parking lot could harness a great deal of solar energy to reduce electrical expenses. Gas stations could power their pumps through the use of solar cells. Anything that requires electricity could utilize photovoltaic energy.
