Carbon emissions are the greatest threat faced by Earth today, with the burning of fossil fuels being the primary contributor to CO2 emissions worldwide. Currently, it is estimated that renewable and clean energy sources contribute roughly 16% of global energy demand. This analysis underscores the urgent need to find alternative energy sources to meet the ever-growing global demand, which is a top priority for both developed and developing nations. Solar photovoltaic (PV) technology is one such solution, and it is nearly maintenance-free. Solar cells, or photovoltaic cells, convert sunlight directly into electricity. They have a wide range of applications, such as supplying electricity to remote areas, powering spacecraft, and being used in military, automotive, and building-integrated PV systems. This chapter covers the fundamentals of converting solar light energy into electrical energy in photovoltaic devices. It also explores the evolution of solar cells through various generations and provides an overview of the market status of the PV industry. Additionally, a brief introduction is given to emerging fields like bifacial photovoltaics, floatovoltaics, and agrivoltaics.