Photovoltaics is a technology that converts sunlight directly into electrical energy. It represents one of the most environmentally friendly and efficient methods of generating electricity from renewable energy sources. Both private households and businesses use it to reduce energy costs and make an active contribution to climate protection.

How does photovoltaics work?

Photovoltaics generates energy using solar cells, which are mostly made of silicon, a semiconductor material. The process is straightforward, yet highly efficient.

  1. Light exposure: Sunlight hits the surface of the solar cells.
  2. Electron movement: The energy of the light excites electrons in the solar cell, creating an electrical voltage.
  3. Power generation: The generated direct current is converted into alternating current using an inverter and used directly or stored in battery systems.

Advantages of photovoltaics

  • Renewable energy source: Solar energy is virtually unlimited and available worldwide.
  • Cost savings: After installation, photovoltaic systems often pay for themselves within a few years through savings in electricity costs.
  • Environmentally friendly: Photovoltaics reduces CO₂ emissions and helps to minimize the ecological footprint.
  • Scalability: Whether a small rooftop or a large open space – photovoltaics adapts to different requirements.
  • Energy self-sufficiency: Battery systems allow households to increase their self-consumption and become more independent from energy suppliers.

Photovoltaics as a key technology of the future

The demand for photovoltaic systems will continue to rise in the coming decades. Reasons for this include:

  • Rising energy costs: More and more people are looking for long-term solutions to secure their energy supply and reduce costs.
  • Climate goals: Many countries are focusing on expanding renewable energies to reduce their CO₂ emissions.
  • Technological innovations: Advances in efficiency, battery storage and smart energy solutions are making photovoltaics increasingly attractive.
  • Global energy demand: With the growing energy demand in emerging countries, photovoltaics plays a central role in the supply of sustainable energy.

Challenges of rooftop installation

The installation of photovoltaic systems requires precise work and high-quality components. The following points are essential:

  • Waterproofing: Without proper sealing, water can penetrate the roof structure.
  • Durability: The assembly must also withstand high snow loads or storms.
  • Fit: Roof tiles are often cut to size, which can create weak points.

Replacement tiles are particularly important; they replace conventional roof tiles and are specifically designed for the requirements of photovoltaic systems.

CLEVER-TILE ® – The future of photovoltaic roof solutions

With CLEVER-TILE ®, we offer you an innovative solution for installing photovoltaic systems on roofs. Our specially developed replacement tiles ensure:

  • Maximum stability: The load is transferred directly into the wooden structure of the roof, minimizing the risk of tile breakage.
  • Perfect seal: Flexible EPDM molded parts prevent the ingress of water, snow and dust.
  • Easy and quick installation: CLEVER-TILE ® adapts to almost all common roof types and requires no complicated cutting.

Benefit from a clean, future-proof energy source and avoid installation errors by choosing the right components. Visit our CLEVER-TILE ® product page to learn more about our well-designed solutions! Together, we're shaping the future of solar energy.

Referenced terms and sources

This existing glossary article was reviewed and approved on 14 October 2026. Time-sensitive information still refers to its original publication context unless the article states otherwise. It does not replace installation instructions or confirm compatibility with a particular roof tile model.

Machine-assisted translation. The German version remains available.

Data sheet and installation guideOriginal source