Solar panels absorb sunlight, which is converted to electricity. This allows you to wash laundry, run the AC, or binge-watch a whole night of Netflix from your couch. How do solar panels work?
Photovoltaic effects allow the matter to produce electrons by exposing it to sunlight. This is how energy is created. Continue reading to learn more about the science behind solar panel technology.
STEP 1. SUNLIGHT HITS SOLAR PANELS
Solar panels are composed of many layers of material. This is where the magic of solar energy lies. Photovoltaic cells (also known as solar cells) are the basic components of a standard solar panel. Two layers of silicon, a thin semiconductor wafer, are used to make each panel. These allow the panels to absorb sunlight and convert it into electricity. Each solar panel has a layer of silicon cells and a layer of glass. Additionally, there is a metal frame that protects the solar cells. Wiring allows for current to flow from the silicon cell.
Solar panels are installed on rooftops as a group. The solar cells absorb sunlight during daylight hours.
STEP 2 – SOLAR CELLS CREATE A CURRENT ELECTRICAL
You may recall that each solar cell is composed of two silicon layers. One layer of silicon is positively charged while the other is negative, which creates an electric field.
Sunlight strikes solar cells, causing them to be energized and electrons to be released from the semiconductor wafer. The wafer’s electric field sets those electrons in motion, creating an electrical current. This phenomenon is called the “photovoltaic effects,” It is the foundation of the science behind solar panel technology.
STEP 3 – THE ELECTRICITY HAS BEEN CONVERTED
Solar panels work hard to convert sunlight into electricity that can be used to power your home. However, the electricity generated by solar panels is not direct current (DC) electricity. Most homes are powered with alternating current (AC).
The solar inverter is like a knight wearing shining armor. You can have one or multiple inverters for your entire system. Or, you can attach individual microinverters behind the panels. Inverters are the intermediary, converting DC electricity to AC electricity. Your panels are now capable of powering appliances and electronics.
Here is a quick breakdown of the photovoltaic system:
- A silicon solar cell absorbs the radiation of the sun
- The sun interacts with silicon cells to create an electric current. Electrons move around when sunlight hits them.
- The solar panel’s wires capture the direct current (DC) and then send it to a solar inverter, where it is converted to AC electricity.
STEP 4 CONVERTED ELECTRICITY OUT OF THE SUN POWERS YOUR HOME
The inverter converts solar energy from DC electricity to AC electricity. It then runs through your electrical panel, and it is distributed throughout your home to power your electronics.
The electricity you receive from your utility company via the power grid works the same as solar energy. You can still connect to your electricity provider and draw additional electricity in an emergency. Or you can sell any unused solar energy back into the grid, which is more common among solar owners.
STEP 5. A UTILITY METER MEASURES ELECTRICITY USE
Solar panels are connected to the utility meter of your home when they are installed on your roof. This meter can measure and access the amount of electricity produced by your solar panels.
Solar energy is dependent on sunlight, so panels might not be able to capture enough light at night or on cloudy days. A solar panel system can be a real workhorse, and it will often produce more electricity than what is needed during daylight hours. A meter measures the electricity flowing to and from your house.
Net metering is a utility billing arrangement that allows you to sell surplus power from your solar panels back to your grid. In exchange, your utility provider will give you credits on the bill. You can then use those net metering credits for your electricity bill to offset any solar panel system underproduction, such as during the night and cloudy days. It’s a win/win situation!
LET OUR TRUSTWORTHY INSTALLERS HELPFULLY HELP YOU JOIN The SOLAR REVOLUTION
Understanding the workings of solar panels is the first step to achieving independence from dirty energy. We can help you learn about how to save money on your solar panel installation.
Freedom Solar is the largest residential solar company in Texas. We have outfitted many homes and commercial businesses with solar power. We offer secure, non-contact installations to keep you and your family safe during the pandemic.