interconnected assembly of photovoltaic cells, also known as solar cells.
An installation of photovoltaic modules or panels is known as a photovoltaic array
or a solar panel. Photovoltaic cells typically require protection from the environment.
For cost and practicality reasons a number of cells are connected electrically
and packaged in a photovoltaic module, while a collection of these modules that are
mechanically fastened together, wired, and designed to be a field-installable unit,
sometimes with a glass covering and a frame and backing made of metal,
plastic or fiberglass, are known as a photovoltaic panel or simply solar panel.
A photovoltaic installation typically includes an array of photovoltaic modules or panels,
an inverter, batteries (for off grid) and interconnection wiring.
This crystalline-silicon module has an
aluminium frame and glass on the front.