How Do Photovoltaic Solar Panels Work

How do solar panels work.

How do photovoltaic solar panels work.

Today s most common pv devices use a single junction or interface to create an electric field within a semiconductor such as a pv cell. A solar panel is made up of numerous photovoltaic cells linked together. Solar panels work by absorbing sunlight with photovoltaic cells generating direct current dc energy and then converting it to usable alternating current ac energy with the help of inverter technology. Let s get even a little more specific and a little more technical about how solar panels convert solar power into electrical energy.

First we ll explain how solar panels work. Today we ll talk about the performance and efficiency of solar panels. The photovoltaic effect is a complicated process but these three steps are the basic way that energy from the sun is converted into electricity by solar cells. Then we ll dig deeper into the factors that affect the efficiency of solar panels.

Ac energy then flows through the home s electrical panel and is distributed accordingly. In 1839 french scientist edmond becquerel discovered that certain materials would give off sparks of electricity when struck with sunlight. Lastly we ll give you insights into maximizing a solar panel s efficiency. Solar cells produce energy in three steps.

Strings of connected pieces increase the amount of energy to form larger units called panels or modules. Photovoltaic modules and arrays produce direct current dc electricity. A photovoltaic cell is an electrical sandwich. Solar photovoltaic pv panels are based on a high tech but remarkably simple technology that converts sunlight directly to electricity.

Simply put a solar panel works by allowing photons or particles of light to knock electrons free from atoms generating a flow of electricity. So let s get started. Light is absorbed and knocks electrons loose. Pv cells take light or photons and convert it to solar electricity.

Loose electrons flow creating a current. A solar photovoltaic pv cell turns sunlight into usable electricity in three general steps. When sunlight hits the solar panel pv cells produce direct current dc electricity. The panel is encased in glass with an anti reflective coating that ensures that the solar panels get the most sun exposure possible.

The current is captured and transferred to wires. How do solar panels work for your. They can be connected in both series and parallel electrical arrangements to produce any required voltage and current combination. How do solar panels work.