How do Solar Panels work? In a nutshell, solar energy conversion involves capturing sunlight into electricity by using specialized solar cells, which are covered by thin film of silicon. Solar power generation begins when photovoltaic cells absorb photons, or tiny particles of light, from the sun’s rays, creating this electrical current (DC). The electricity produced is then converted into AC by means of an inverter. This simple process is why we use batteries for storing DC energy generated by our solar panels; in the absence of batteries, we would have to use large electrical generators (like those used to produce power in remote locations like Alaska, Australia, and India) to supply our homes and businesses with electricity.
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Types of residential panels
There are two main types of residential panels: stand-alone and grid-tied system. A stand-alone system can be installed in any size area. For a grid-tie system, a series of solar cells are connected together, creating a “Grid System”. This grid system consists of “CC” panels, connected to one another, and connected to the electric grid. When energy needs arise, the DC energy from the panels are captured, sent to the electric generator, and converted into AC energy.
Photons, the particles of light that strike silicon, are captured by the surface area of a silicon semiconductor. There are many different types of silicon, and each one has a varying number of electrons available per unit cell. Silicon is the most commonly used semiconductor in the creation of solar cells. Silicon atoms are excited in response to an electric charge, resulting in the generation of two electrons. These two electrons, paired with an electron from an adjacent atom, creates a flow of electricity.
Photovoltaic cells
Photons are absorbed by silicon atoms, and are then excited in response to an electrical current. The electrons flow through the network of photovoltaic cells. Light emitted by these cells, in the form of photons, are then captured by the Cd’s. The silicon atoms produce an electrical current when the light photons knock on an open caged crystal. The flow of electricity created by these cells is captured by resistors connected to the electric grid, which then convert the AC power into usable electricity in our homes.
A single, connected set of solar cells forms the solar panel system. There are two main parts to a solar panel system; the photovoltaic material, which is the source of the electrons, and the mounting surfaces, which catch and store the sunlight. There are many components involved in the entire process of converting sunlight into electricity, but this article will cover just two main areas.
Advantage
One major advantage to using solar panels is the fact that they do not create any greenhouse gases. The amount of sunlight being used to generate electricity is staggering when compared to fossil fuels, which release greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. Also, the amount of pollution generated by automobiles and other sources of energy, such as coal and natural gas, is astonishing. Fossil fuels and other non-renewable resources are depleting at an alarming rate around the world. While solar panels produce electricity without depleting natural resources, they cannot replace them completely.
Disadvantage
One major disadvantage to using energy from the sun is the effect it has on the environment. The rays of the sun have an amazing effect on the earth’s atmosphere. When sunlight strikes the earth, the absorption and emission of heat are altered in such a way that it can change the planet’s climate and weather. The absorption of UV radiation increases the rate of warming. While this type of warming is not currently considered a threat to the existence of the earth, future changes could lead to changes which could prove to be disastrous.
These days, more people than ever before are going solar for many reasons. Solar panels are the most affordable solution to cutting energy consumption while creating a healthier environment. In addition to reducing energy consumption, they are also better for the environment. Solar panels do not deplete the earth’s resources or put off sunlight into space. Solar panels harness the power of the sun and change it into electricity. Now you need to know how do solar panels work.
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