A complete account of PV module reliability issues should include issues ranging from vandalism to theft. Photovoltaic modules must be exposed due to their inherent function. In the case of installing photovoltaics on non-building structures (such as street lamps), they are usually installed independently. Therefore, they are vulnerable to damage by vandals. The possibility of vandalism and theft can only be avoided when the system is designed. Photovoltaic modules should be placed in inaccessible places and equipped with anti-theft locks.

Converting solar radiation energy into thermal energy through conversion devices belongs to solar thermal utilization technology, and reusing thermal energy to generate electricity is called solar thermal power generation, which also belongs to this technical field. Converting solar radiation energy into electrical energy through conversion devices belongs to Solar photovoltaic power generation technology, photoelectric conversion devices usually use the photovoltaic effect principle of semiconductor devices for photoelectric conversion, so it is also called solar photovoltaic technology.