How does a solar panel work?

Solar panels, also known as photovoltaic (PV) panels, convert sunlight into electricity through a process called the photovoltaic effect. Here’s a simplified explanation of how solar panels work:

Photons Absorption: When sunlight, which is composed of tiny particles called photons, strikes a solar panel, the photons are absorbed by the solar cells within the panel.

Generation of Electrons: The absorbed energy from photons excites the electrons in the solar cells, allowing them to break free from their atoms. This process generates an electric current.

Electric Field Formation: Within the solar cell, there is an electric field created by the introduction of different materials. This electric field causes the free electrons to move in a specific direction, creating an electric current.

Metal Conductors: The electric current generated within the solar cells is then captured by metal conductive plates on the surface of the solar panel. These metal conductors route the electric current out of the solar panel to be used externally.

Direct Current (DC) Electricity: The electric current produced by solar panels is in the form of direct current (DC), which is the same type of electricity produced by batteries. However, most of the appliances and electrical systems in homes and businesses use alternating current (AC).

Inverter Conversion: To make the electricity compatible with household appliances, an inverter is used to convert the DC electricity from the solar panels into AC electricity.

Utility Grid Connection (Optional): The converted AC electricity can be used to power the electrical devices in a home or business. In many cases, excess electricity generated by solar panels can be fed back into the grid, and some solar panel systems are connected to the utility grid to provide additional power when the solar panels are not producing enough electricity.

In summary, solar panels harness the energy from sunlight, convert it into electricity, and make it usable for powering homes, businesses, and various electrical devices. The efficiency and performance of solar panels can vary based on factors such as the quality of the panels, the angle and orientation of the panels, and the amount of sunlight they receive.