The cell keeps generating electricity, even on cloudy days, until the sun goes down at night. To see solar power in action, check out This Solar House.

A solar cell is made of two types of semiconductors ... An increasing number of everyday items are powered with the sun, including backpacks, watches, cars, and airplanes. Also, electricity-generating ...

As the electrons flow through the cell, they generate electricity. On a much larger scale, solar-thermal power plants employ various techniques to concentrate the sun's energy as a heat source.

It's plausible that sun-facing solar cells could essentially self-heal at temperatures of 100°C (212°F) -- this warmth is enough to repair the bonds in the lab.