A Basic Overview of How Solar Panels Work
Solar panels, or photovoltaics (PV), can take sunlight and convert it into power. Now let me break it down (the process) for you simply:How solar panels work.
1. Solar Cells: How solar panels work
The most important component of a solar panel is the solar cell.
→ Semiconductors (solar cells are semiconductors, usually silicon)
Sunlight hits a solar cell and dislodges electrons from their silicon atoms.
2. Creating an Electric Field: How solar panels work
In the cell structure, an electric field is created due to the specific design of a solar cell.
This electric field then pushes the free electrons to flow in a certain direction.
3. DC electricity: How solar panels work
–Electron movement creates direct current (DC) electricity.
4. Inverters:
To convert the Direct Current (DC) to alternant we use an inverter.
The inverter: The electrical energy generated by the solar panels is in DC current, which the inverter converts into AC electricity
5. Powering Your Home:
The inverter then converts this into AC electricity that can be used to power your home.
This surplus energy is stored in batteries or fed back into the grid.
Visual Representation:
Solar panels are devices that convert sunlight to electricity.
Key Points:
No Moving Parts:** Solar Panels boast no moving parts, making them exceptionally reliable and virtually maintenance-free.
No Noise:** Solar panels are far quieter than traditional power generators.
Long Duration: The duration of a solar panel can even hit 25+ years
Environmental advantages: Solar energy is a clean and renewable source of energy that reduces greenhouse emissions.
Gain an understanding of the fundamentals of how solarpanels work, and be able to appreciate the science behind this sustainable energy technology.
Gain an understanding of the fundamentals of how solarpanels work, and be able to appreciate the science behind this sustainable energy technology.