DECEMBER 2012
Photovoltaic System Performance

Photovoltaic (PV) systems use photovoltaic cells to directly convert sunlight into electricity. A commercial-scale PV system and four smaller laboratory PV systems were tested at the Bean Federal Center in Indianapolis, Indiana. PV is effective even in four-season climates with cloudy skies. Price should drive PV selection.

Download Findings

• 1-page infographic

• 4-page brief

• Full report

Additional Resources

• Guidance: On-Site Commercial Solar PV Decision Guide (DOE, September 2015)

• Overview: Energy SunShot Initiative Fact Sheet: Photovoltaics (DOE, February 2016)

• Overview: Solar Photovoltaic Technology Basics (DOE EERE, August 2013)

• Tool: Solar PV Project Cost Calculator (Optony, EPA, Draft October 2013)

• Tool: System Advisor Model for Grid-Connected Renewable Projects (NREL, April 2010)