How Do Solar Panels Work

Understanding how solar panels work can help you make an informed decision about investing in solar energy. Whether you're a homeowner or a business owner, solar panels can provide a sustainable and cost-effective energy solution. Let's discuss the science behind them, and their benefits.

What are Solar Panels?

Solar panels, also known as photovoltaic (PV) panels, convert sunlight into electricity. They are made up of many solar cells, typically made of silicon, a semiconductor, which captures sunlight and converts it into direct current (DC) electricity. These cells are arranged in a grid-like pattern on the panel's surface, encased in a protective glass cover.

The Science Behind How Solar Panels Work

When sunlight hits a solar cell, it excites electrons in the silicon, causing them to charge and move. This movement creates an electric current. Here's how; 

1. The solar panels absorb sunlight through their photovoltaic cells on the panel during daytime hours.
2. When exposed to sunlight, the absorbed light energy excites electrons in the silicon cells, producing a charge.

3.The movement of these charged up electrons generates an electric direct current (DC).

4.Then using an inverter the generated DC electricity is converted into alternating current (AC) electricity, making it suitable for home or business appliance use.

There are three main types of solar panels available:

1. Monocrystalline Panels: Made from a single piece of silicon structure, these panels are highly efficient, due to their large surface area to capture sunlight and produce energy. They are  space-efficient, ideal for areas with limited space that require large energy production.
2. Polycrystalline Panels: Made from multiple silicon crystals in one PV panel, these panels are less efficient than monocrystalline panels but are more affordable.
3. Thin-Film Panels: These panels are a lightweight and flexible formula designed to absorb sunlight instead of PV panels. They are suitable for various commercial projects, but they are less efficient than crystalline panels.

Benefits of Solar Panels

Investing in solar panels offers several significant benefits:

- Solar panels generate free electricity during the daytime, reducing your reliance on the grid and lowering your energy bills. If you want the excess energy absorbed from the sunlight, invest in a solar battery as your backup.

- Solar energy is renewable and clean, reducing your carbon footprint and helping combat climate change but moving away from fossil fuels.

- With solar panels, you become less dependent on energy suppliers, protecting yourself from rising energy costs. With the option to sell energy back to the grid, it is a cost-efficient system.

- Homes and businesses with solar panels often see an increase in property value due to the added energy efficiency, and compatibility or the future direction of our planet.

Choosing the Right Solar Panel System

Selecting the right solar panel system depends on various factors such as your current energy needs and consumption. Once you assess this, it will determine the size of the solar panel system you need. Evaluate your roof space and its orientation to ensure optimal sunlight exposure, and which type of solar panel will fit best. Consider your budget, including installation costs, weighed up by potential savings on energy bills, and discover which is the most efficient PV panel for your home or business.