Solar Power How Do Solar Panels Work

Solar panels work by converting sunlight into electricity at the atomic scale.

Solar power how do solar panels work.

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. This flow travels in a circuit of wires that connect groups of solar panels called arrays. Solar panels actually comprise many smaller units. Since this process happens at such a small scale it is invisible for humans.

Every light switch you flick and outlet you use is running off of ac current. Most solar cells are made out of silicon. This entire energy conversion process from the panel to your house s outlets is known as the photovoltaic effect. Compared with other renewable energy systems panels are characterized by their lack of movement.

When solar cells are struck by light they produce a flow of electrons or electric current. Simply put a solar panel works by allowing photons or particles of light to knock electrons free from atoms generating a flow of electricity. When subject to sunlight photovoltaic cells create a flow of electric charge inside the solar panel due to the photoelectric effect. Ac energy then flows through the home s electrical panel and is distributed accordingly.

Solar panels contain cells of semiconductive material usually silicon usually encased in a metallic frame and tempered glass.