Learning how solar panels work

Solar panels are a sustainable way for us to convert the sun’s energy into electricity . The process through which this occurs is called the photovoltaic effect. Solar energy is a clean and sustainable energy source, and over the last few years, it has become increasingly popular. This is in part due to the fact that it has huge environmental benefits and provides long-term cost savings. It is important that these are installed by a Solar Panel Installers Bristol company like https://redbridgeandsons.co.uk/solar-pv-panels/solar-panel-installers-bristol.

A simple explanation of how solar panels work is as follows:

How photovoltaic cells capture sunlight

The photovoltaic cells are made of a semiconductor material such as silicon. These cells are made to capture the photons from the light particles from the sun. When the sunlight reaches the panel, the photons are absorbed by the cells. The energy that is absorbed excites the electrons in the semiconductor material. This then causes the electrons to become energised.

Turning captured energy into usable electricity

These energised electrons have a higher energy state, and they move freely within the semiconductor. The movement within the material generates an electrical current. This electrical current is known as a direct current. The solar panels contain an inverter which converts the direct current into an alternating current. Alternating currents are those currents that power the appliances and devices within our homes.

Solar panels are going to be one of the ways that we move over to more sustainable methods of energy creation.

Summary

Gives a simple explanation of how solar panels convert sunlight into electricity through the photovoltaic effect, describing how silicon cells absorb photons and release energised electrons that create a direct current, which an inverter then converts into the alternating current used to power household appliances and devices.

Questions this article raises

• How does panel efficiency affect how much electricity is actually generated?
• What happens to solar electricity when it isn’t being used immediately?
• How long do solar panels typically last before needing replacement?