This paper surveys recent progress in solar photovoltaic (PV) technology, concentrating on fresh materials, higher efficiencies, and new use cases. Rising energy demand and accelerating climate impacts make affordable, clean solar power ever more vital. We compare well-established silicon panels with emergent options like perovskite and thin-film cells, weighing each systems efficiency, drawbacks, and life-cycle footprint. The review also considers advanced designs-multi-junction devices, bifacial modules, and building-integrated PV (BIPV) that push performance beyond heritage architectures. Together, these innovations are finding homes in residences, offices, farms, and even vehicles. Yet hurdles persist: grid fit, uneven policy support, and end-of-life waste remain pressing issues. Drawing on recent studies and comparative statistics, we propose actionable pathways for wider adoption and stronger governance around the world.
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