How Do Solar Panels Work?

Have you ever asked yourself, “how do solar panels actually work? How are they able to convert energy from the sun into electricity?” This article will break down the steps that enable the generation of sustainable and renewable energy.

The process that converts sunlight into electricity is known as the photovoltaic effect, made possible by photovoltaic panels, being the core component of a solar panel.  Solar panels are made up of multiple photovoltaic cells, primarily composed of semiconductor materials such as silicon. 

Photovoltaic cells consist of 2 separate layers, the n-type layer, and the p-type layer, forming what is called a “junction”. The n-type layer has excess electrons, whereas the p-type layer contains a shortage of them. When the sunlight hits the solar panel, the photons from the sunlight are able to transfer their energy to the silicon electrons, where they are then separated from the silicon atom, generating an electric field within the junction. This allows for the electrons to flow from the negative terminal to the positive one, the n-type layer to the p-type layer, forming an electric current. 

But, how is this electric current able to generate electricity that is compatible with the power grid and household appliances? The electric current that is created from each cell is known as direct current (DC), where an inverter is then used to convert the DC into an alternating current (AC). When the DC current enters the inverter, a switching current on and off is used to turn the DC current on and off, creating a waveform similar to that of the AC signal. 

This technique known as Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) is what allows for the DC current to mimic an AC sine wave. The inverter then utilizes filters and smoothing circuits and fixes the signal, ensuring it is a stable AC sine wave. The AC power is then able to be stored in batteries, or used immediately.

In order to withstand harsh conditions such as rain, hail, and wind, the solar panels are encased in a protective layer of tempered glass along with other durable materials. In order to maximise the absorption of sunlight, an anti reflective coating is used beneath the surface of the solar panels.

The efficiency of solar panels, measured in their ability to convert sunlight photons into electricity, is dependent on many factors, including the angle of sunlight, the quality of materials used, and dirt or dust on the surface. Despite having these limitations, as technological advancements are made, there is an increase in efficiency, as well as a decrease in costs, allowing for solar panels to be a viable solution for sustainable and renewable energy needs.

Word Cited

Dominion Energy Solutions. (2022, April 8). Do Solar Panels Increase Home Value? [online] Dominion Energy Solutions. Available at: https://solutions.dominionenergy.com/blog/do-solar-panels-increase-home-value/

Wikipedia. (2005, June 6). electric current generation from light. [online] Wikipedia.org; Wikimedia Foundation, Inc. Available at: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Photovoltaic_effect