This review examines the influence of thermal effects on solar cell performance, highlighting the critical role of temperature in determining the efficiency, voltage, current output, and stability of photovoltaic systems. Solar cells, as the core of photovoltaic technology, are highly sensitive to temperature variations, which can significantly impact their performance. The review provides a comprehensive analysis of how temperature affects solar cells, including the mechanisms of thermal losses, such as Auger recombination, Shockley–Read–Hall recombination, increased carrier mobility, and higher dark current. It also discusses the theoretical models and equations that describe these thermal effects, such as the Shockley equation and the Shockley–Queisser limit. The review emphasizes the importance of understanding these thermal effects to optimize solar cell performance and develop strategies to mitigate their adverse consequences. It covers various experimental techniques for thermal analysis, factors influencing temperature variations, and strategies to alleviate thermal stresses. Additionally, the review presents real-world case studies and discusses future trends and research directions, providing a comprehensive roadmap for advancing solar cell technology. The findings underscore the need for precise thermal assessments and innovative solutions to enhance the efficiency and reliability of solar energy systems. The review also explores the heat effects and heat transfer mechanisms in solar systems, including the role of charge controllers, inverters, wiring, and solar panels. It highlights the importance of effective heat management to prevent overheating and ensure the sustained performance of solar energy systems. The review concludes that understanding and addressing thermal effects are essential for maximizing the efficiency and longevity of solar cells, contributing to the development of more sustainable and efficient photovoltaic technologies.This review examines the influence of thermal effects on solar cell performance, highlighting the critical role of temperature in determining the efficiency, voltage, current output, and stability of photovoltaic systems. Solar cells, as the core of photovoltaic technology, are highly sensitive to temperature variations, which can significantly impact their performance. The review provides a comprehensive analysis of how temperature affects solar cells, including the mechanisms of thermal losses, such as Auger recombination, Shockley–Read–Hall recombination, increased carrier mobility, and higher dark current. It also discusses the theoretical models and equations that describe these thermal effects, such as the Shockley equation and the Shockley–Queisser limit. The review emphasizes the importance of understanding these thermal effects to optimize solar cell performance and develop strategies to mitigate their adverse consequences. It covers various experimental techniques for thermal analysis, factors influencing temperature variations, and strategies to alleviate thermal stresses. Additionally, the review presents real-world case studies and discusses future trends and research directions, providing a comprehensive roadmap for advancing solar cell technology. The findings underscore the need for precise thermal assessments and innovative solutions to enhance the efficiency and reliability of solar energy systems. The review also explores the heat effects and heat transfer mechanisms in solar systems, including the role of charge controllers, inverters, wiring, and solar panels. It highlights the importance of effective heat management to prevent overheating and ensure the sustained performance of solar energy systems. The review concludes that understanding and addressing thermal effects are essential for maximizing the efficiency and longevity of solar cells, contributing to the development of more sustainable and efficient photovoltaic technologies.