Photovoltaics: true and false

PV modules don't work on cloudy days.

FALSE. The modules harvest both direct sunlight and so-called diffuse radiation. This means they are efficient even on cloudy days. The more luminous the environment, the more efficient the modules will be, irrespective of whether or not the sun is visible. 50% of the total solar radiation in Central Europe is diffuse.


Photovoltaic systems have high running costs.

FALSE. The lifetimes of PV systems are more than 30 years and they require very little, relatively low cost maintenance.


Photovoltaics can be used to acquire tax incentives.

TRUE. You can build energy class A or B buildings and reap the benefits – when applicable – of the "volume bonus" (part of the volume is not included in the buildable volume calculation). The bonus amounts to 10% for class A buildings and 5% for class B buildings. This provision applies both if buildings are new and if they are rebuilt after demolition.


Materials in photovoltaic systems are recyclable.

TRUE. Manufacturers of the components distributed by Thesan are all members of PV Cycle: more than 90% of end-of-life system components are collected and returned to the production cycle.