What is a solar panel?

A Solar panels (also known as " PV panels") is a device that converts light from the sun, which is composed of particles of energy called "photons", into electricity that can be used to power electrical loads.

What are the components of a solar panel?

The main component of a solar panel is a solar cell, which converts the Sun ’s energy to usable electrical energy. The most common form of solar panels involve crystalline silicon -type solar cells. These solar cells are formed using layers of elemental silicon and elements such as phosphorus and boron.

How do solar panels work?

PV cells are made of materials that produce excited electrons when exposed to light. The electrons flow through a circuit and produce direct current (DC) electricity, which can be used to power various devices or be stored in batteries. Solar panels are also known as solar cell panels, solar electric panels, or PV modules.

How are solar panels arranged?

Solar panels are usually arranged in groups called arrays or systems. A photovoltaic system consists of one or more solar panels, an inverter that converts DC electricity to alternating current (AC) electricity, and sometimes other components such as controllers, meters, and trackers.

Why are solar panels important?

Solar panels are the most important part of a solar power system since they produce the electricity that eventually finds it’s way to your laptop, lights and television. In this basic introduction, we look at how this happens. How do solar panels work? Solar panels convert sunlight into electricity through a process called the photovoltaic effect.

How many solar cells are in a solar panel?

A panel comprises 60-72 solar cells. Solar cells create electricity when exposed to light. Each cell produces about 3 volts of power. 90% of solar cells are made from silicon. Silicon absorbs light and can conduct electricity. Solar panels on a roof (Image by Stefano from Pixabay)