Photovoltaics - the energy of the future

Like all so-called "clean" energies, photovoltaics make it possible to combat the greenhouse effect but also to provide a solution to the increasing scarcity of fossil fuels. This is a technology which Saint-Gobain has been developing for around 10 years.

Photovoltaics - how it works

Conventional photovoltaic cells are electronic components based on silicon, a semiconductor material. It absorbs photons (constituents of solar rays) converting their energy into electrical particles (electrons). These charges are collected on the front and rear of the cell. The tension this creates generates an electrical current. Each cell only produces a limited quantity of electricity (≈ 0.5 volt). The cells are assembled in modules and panels, which are themselves connected in series.

Multiple applications

The conversion of solar energy into electricity is used in many applications in the building, residential, commercial and industrial sectors, whether they are connected or not to an electricity network. Installed on rooftops or facades, the photovoltaic panels are reliable and maintenance-free. They are able to supply a considerable proportion of a building's energy needs, thereby amortising the initial capital investment.

Saint-Gobain - a key player

Saint-Gobain is a leading supplier of special glass designed for photovoltaic applications, with around 30% of world market share. Mainly due to its SGG ALBARINO extra-clear patterned glass, SGG DIAMANT float glass and its experience in layer glass, Saint-Gobain is already a key player in this field. The Group is also a supplier of photovoltaic panels using the CIS thin-layer technology via Avancis, a joint company set up with Shell, at Torgau in Germany, where a production plant was inaugurated in 2008. Furthermore, Saint-Gobain is developing photovoltaic sub-assemblies to be incorporated into building structure (roofing, facades, etc.).