Abstract
Solar photovoltaic (PV) technology has emerged as a cornerstone of global renewable energy strategies due to its capacity to harness the sun’s energy and convert it into electricity with minimal environmental impact. This review provides a comprehensive examination of existing and emerging PV technologies, with a focus on advancements aimed at improving efficiency. We explore traditional PV cell types—such as monocrystalline, polycrystalline, and thin-film technologies—alongside cutting-edge developments, including perovskite cells, tandem configurations, and concentrated photovoltaic (CPV) systems. The review highlights the factors that influence PV efficiency, including material properties, optical design, temperature effects, and electrical optimization. In addition, we analyze the practical applications of high-efficiency PV systems in utility-scale solar farms, building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV), and space-based solar power solutions. While significant strides have been made