As for efficiency, solar thermal is generally more efficient than solar photovoltaic. Solar thermal systems can convert about 70% of solar radiation into heat, while solar photovoltaic systems have an efficiency of between 15% and 20%. However, the efficiency can vary based on the specific technology and conditions. It’s also worth noting that while solar thermal may be more efficient in converting sunlight to energy, solar photovoltaic systems may be more suitable for certain applications due to their ability to directly convert sunlight into electricity.

Dr Jorge Morales Pedraza thank you for your contribution to the discussion

Solar thermal is more space efficient than solar PV. They can be up to 70% more efficient in collecting heat from sun rays than solar PV. The technology itself is less complex than solar PV. At a smaller scale, domestic PV systems are more versatile than thermal systems, since they can power many appliances. They also have a larger lifespan. Either system can be liberating, freeing you from monthly electric bills and reliance on fossil fuels. A solar thermal system may work for you if you just need to heat your home. Otherwise, photovoltaic systems are much more versatile you can heat your home and water while also powering your home's electrical system. Monocrystalline solar panels are the most efficient type of panel compared to polycrystalline and thin-film options. Monocrystalline solar panels deliver between 15% to 22% efficiency. Solar cells, also called photovoltaic cells, convert sunlight directly into electricity. Photovoltaics (often shortened as PV) get its name from the process of converting light (photons) to electricity (voltage), which is called the photovoltaic effect. A photovoltaic (PV) cell, commonly called a solar cell, is a no mechanical device that converts sunlight directly into electricity. Some PV cells can convert artificial light into electricity. Sunlight is composed of photons, or particles of solar energy.A solar cell, or photovoltaic cell, is an electrical device that converts the energy of light(sun) directly into electricity by the photovoltaic effect. Photovoltaic (PV) materials and devices convert sunlight into electrical energy. When the sun shines onto a solar panel, energy from the sunlight is absorbed by the PV cells in the panel. This energy creates electrical charges that move in response to an internal electrical field in the cell, causing electricity to flow. Solar cells, also called photovoltaic cells, convert sunlight directly into electricity. Photovoltaic (often shortened as PV) gets its name from the process of converting light (photons) to electricity (voltage), which is called the photovoltaic effect. A solar cell (photovoltaic cell) is an electronic device that directly converts sunlight into useful electrical energy by using the photovoltaic effect. The cell is made up of silicon alloys because it has the capability to carry the energy coming from the sun and it is non-toxic. Solar technologies convert sunlight into electrical energy either through photovoltaic (PV) panels or through mirrors that concentrate solar radiation. This energy can be used to generate electricity or be stored in batteries or thermal storage.

Solar energy is a prominent source of renewable energy, with various utilization patterns including solar photovoltaic conversion, solar thermal utilization, and solar thermal power generation technology. Solar thermal and photovoltaic technologies have different efficiencies and functions. Solar thermal technologies are perceived as more efficient in terms of unit cost of generation and have higher efficiencies compared to solar photovoltaic technologies, which convert sunlight directly into electricity through the photovoltaic effect in photovoltaic cells

Solar thermal technologies are indeed perceived as more efficient in terms of unit cost of generation and have higher efficiencies compared to solar photovoltaic technologies .

However, it is important to note that the efficiency of solar technologies can vary depending on various factors such as location, design, and implementation. Therefore, it is essential to consider the specific context and requirements when determining the most suitable solar technology for a particular application.

Dr Beren Sardar Abdullah Atroshi thank you for your contribution to the discussion

Solar thermal and photovoltaic (PV) technologies serve different purposes in harnessing solar energy. Comparing their efficiency depends on the specific application.

Solar thermal systems typically capture sunlight to generate heat, which can be used for various purposes, including electricity generation or heating water. In some cases, solar thermal systems can achieve high efficiencies in converting sunlight into usable heat, especially in applications like concentrated solar power (CSP).

On the other hand, solar photovoltaic cells directly convert sunlight into electricity through the photovoltaic effect. The efficiency of solar PV systems has improved over time, and modern PV technologies can convert a significant portion of sunlight into electricity. However, as of now, the overall efficiency of solar thermal systems can sometimes be higher, especially in large-scale applications.

High-temperature collectors concentrate sunlight using mirrors or lenses and are generally used for electric power production. STE is different from photovoltaics, which converts solar energy directly into electricity. A photovoltaic (PV) cell, commonly called a solar cell, is a no mechanical device that converts sunlight directly into electricity. Some PV cells can convert artificial light into electricity. Sunlight is composed of photons, or particles of solar energy.The conversion of sunlight into electricity is known as photovoltaic energy. A photovoltaic cell, also known as a solar cell or PV, is the technology that converts solar energy into electrical power directly. Photovoltaic cells are non-mechanical devices comprised primarily of silicon alloys. Therefore, the solar cell converts solar energy into electrical energy. Solar thermal is more space efficient than solar PV. They can be up to 70% more efficient in collecting heat from sun rays than solar PV. The technology itself is less complex than solar PV. Solar hot water collector panels are more efficient than solar power panels in that they take up approximately ⅓ of the roof space needed for an equivalent size solar power system. When the sun shines onto a solar panel, energy from the sunlight is absorbed by the PV cells in the panel. This energy creates electrical charges that move in response to an internal electrical field in the cell, causing electricity to flow. A solar cell or photovoltaic cell (PV cell) is an electronic device that converts the energy of light directly into electricity by means of the photovoltaic effect. Photovoltaics generate electricity directly from sunlight via an electronic process and can be used to power anything from small electronics such as calculators and road signs up to homes and large commercial businesses.