With reference to technologies for solar power production, consider the following statements : 1. 'Photovoltaics' is a technology that generates electricity by direct conversion of light into electricity, while 'Solar Thermal' is a technology that utilizes the Sun's rays to generate heat which is further used in electricity generation process. 2. Photovoltaics generates Alternating Current (AC), while Solar Thermal generates Direct Current (DC). 3. India has manufacturing base for Solar Thermal technology, but not for Photovoltaics. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Statement 1 correctly distinguishes between Photovoltaics (PV) and Solar Thermal technologies. PV converts sunlight directly into electricity using the photovoltaic effect, whereas Solar Thermal technology concentrates sunlight to heat a fluid, which is then used to generate steam to drive a turbine connected to a generator, thereby producing electricity indirectly. Statement 2 is incorrect; Photovoltaic cells inherently produce Direct Current (DC), which is then converted to Alternating Current (AC) by an inverter if needed for grid connection or AC appliances. Solar Thermal power plants typically use conventional generators which produce Alternating Current (AC). Statement 3 is incorrect; India has a significant manufacturing base for both Photovoltaic modules/cells and various components used in Solar Thermal power plants.