1. The document discusses photovoltaic (PV) energy, which harnesses sunlight to generate electricity. PV energy was discovered in 1839 and represents a suitable renewable energy source. 2. PV panels operate by converting sunlight into electricity via the photovoltaic effect. Electrons in silicon or other semiconducting materials are knocked loose when struck by photons, allowing electricity to flow. 3. PV installations can be either off-grid systems with battery storage or connected to the electric grid. The solar energy industry has grown rapidly in recent years and now supports over 100,000 American jobs.