Decoding Solar Panel Operation

How do solar panels work?

Solar panels are devices that convert sunlight into electricity. They are made up of photovoltaic cells, which are made of semiconductor materials such as silicon. When sunlight hits a solar panel, it causes the electrons in the semiconductor material to become excited, creating a flow of electricity.

The basic principle behind the operation of a solar panel is the photovoltaic effect, which is the ability of certain materials to convert sunlight into electricity. When sunlight, or photons, strikes the surface of a solar cell, it excites the electrons in the semiconductor material, creating a flow of electricity.

The electricity generated by a single solar panel is direct current (DC) electricity, which is not compatible with the alternating current (AC) electricity used in most homes and buildings. To use the electricity generated by the solar panels, it must be converted to AC electricity by an inverter.

The solar panels are connected in series or parallel to form a solar array. The solar array's output is then connected to an inverter which converts the DC power to AC power. The inverter also ensures that the voltage and frequency of the electricity generated by the solar panels match the voltage and frequency of the electricity used in the building.

The electricity generated by the solar panels can be used to power the building's electrical devices, or it can be sent back to the grid through a process called net metering. Any excess electricity that is sent back to the grid is credited to the building's utility bill.

It's worth noting that solar panels require minimal maintenance, but it's important to keep them clean from debris and dust to maximize their performance.