All products and services presented are personally selected by our editors. However, if you purchase something through our retail links, we may receive an affiliate commission.
Many homeowners know that investing in solar energy can lower their bills and reduce their impact on the environment . However, many people don't know exactly how solar panels work . Learning the science behind solar technology can help you make a more informed decision when purchasing a system from a leading solar company . This article breaks down important information about solar panels , how they work, and how to maintain a solar energy system .
What are solar modules?
Solar panels are devices that power your home by converting the sun's energy into usable electricity . Plus, photovoltaic solar panels provide your home with renewable energy without the need for expensive and toxic fossil fuels . Photovoltaic modules are usually installed on the roof, but ground-mounted systems are also possible. The number of panels needed will depend on your energy consumption, the type of solar panel you choose and the space available.
Sunny, cloud-free days are ideal for solar panels and provide maximum performance. On cloudy days the panels work , but the power is reduced. Shadows from surrounding buildings or trees can affect the performance of the solar system.
What is the photoelectric effect?
The science behind solar cells is known as the photovoltaic effect . Particles of sunlight, or photons, knock electrons out of atoms . When these electrons move , solar cells capture electrical currents and generate electricity.
The panels contain components known as photovoltaic (PV) cells that capture sunlight. Photoelectric cells are generally 15 cm long and 15 cm wide. A typical panel contains between 32 and 48 photocells , but this can vary depending on the size and power of the panel. Inside each cell is a non-metallic semiconductor material that helps absorb energy . In traditional solar cells , that material is silicon, one of the most common elements on earth.
Silicon itself is not a good conductor. Solar cell manufacturers use a process called "doping" to increase the conductivity of silicon and allow impurities to stick to it. To create an electric charge, two elements are added: boron and phosphorus . Boron adds a positive charge, while phosphorus adds a negative charge.
These elements sit on two layers of silicon and combine to form an electric field . The sides of silicon solar cells are covered in metal plates that bind electrons in the form of an electric current . This current flows through the rest of the solar panel system and into your home.
Types of solar panel materials
The most popular solar cells use crystalline silicon. These panels are of two types: monocrystalline (mono) and polycrystalline (poly).
Single panels use single glass technology. Their price is higher than other types of panels, but they provide superior performance and efficiency. Polyethylene panels use broken crystals. This is a more cost-effective process because the silicon scrap can be used to make more panels. Polyethylene panels have a low cost, but low energy efficiency.
Thin film solar modules are a cheaper alternative to crystalline modules. They use thin photovoltaic materials instead of silicon. Although thin-film panels are cheaper, they offer the lowest power output of the three options.
Efficiency of solar modules.
These different manufacturing processes affect the efficiency of solar modules . Efficiency is measured by the amount of sunlight the panel absorbs and effectively converts into solar energy . The higher the efficiency, the higher the solar conversion of the panel. For example, a solar cell with an efficiency of 20% can absorb 20% of the sunlight that hits it. According to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), solar panels currently provide efficiency between 16 and 22 percent, but average around 19.2 percent.
Monocrystalline modules using pure silicon provide the highest efficiency, typically between 17% and 23%. Polycrystalline modules are slightly lower, the values are between 13% and 16%. Thin film modules have the lowest efficiency, between 7% and 11%.
Understand how solar panels work
Each component of your solar system plays an important role in energy conversion. Below you will find a step by step guide to making solar panels .
- Solar energy activates the photocells : then the photoelectric effect begins . When sunlight hits the solar panels , the photocells activate and capture the rays. This energy is converted into electricity by the panels . First, the power is converted into direct or direct current .
- Direct Current Becomes Alternating Current : A solar inverter converts direct current to alternating current , the type of electricity used in every home. There are two types of inverter installation : string and microinverter . String inverters , the most common type, are installed in your home and convert energy from all of your solar panels in one central location. Microinverters are connected to each panel that directly convert energy into sources.
- Alternating Current Flows into Your Home After being converted, alternating current flows into your home through your electrical panel and into outlets. This process is similar to receiving electricity from a utility company . Some homeowners connect solar panels to the grid to ensure their home receives power when the panels are not in use. However, you can only power your home with solar energy . To stay off the grid, you need to build a power system with backup power to meet your home's needs at night or on days with little sunlight.
- A net meter monitors and monitors energy When your system generates solar energy , a net meter monitors the usage of your entire grid-tied system . This device monitors the amount of energy your system generates and the amount of electricity it receives from the grid. Net meters record the maximum amount of electricity your system generates . If your state or local government offers a net metering program, you can sell excess energy back to the grid to get utility credits or annual payments . These credits help offset energy costs when you need grid-connected electricity. To learn more about net metering programs in your area, visit State Incentives for Renewable Energy and Efficiency (DSIRE) .
- Solar panel systems store excess electricity : If your area doesn't have a net energy metering program or you want to save excess energy, you can add a solar panel to your system. Solar panels store extra energy until you're ready to use it. This is useful in case of unexpected power outages and when other solar panels fail. In some areas, when electricity prices are high, electricity can be stored, which can further reduce your electricity bill. Solar storage options can be added to a new or existing energy system.
Our advice
The success of every solar system starts with the modules. We recommend investing in high-quality solar panels to maximize your savings and ROI . Consider solar incentives, such as federal tax credits , to reduce installation costs . When purchasing a solar system, compare quotes from at least three installers to find the best deal. Below we provide a tool to help you get started with your search.
Frequently asked questions about solar panels
What is the efficiency of solar modules?
Solar panel efficiency is measured by how efficiently the panels absorb sunlight and convert it into energy. The higher the efficiency, the better the energy conversion by the modules and ultimately the energy saving potential. Average solar modules have an efficiency of between 15% and 18%, but can go up to 23%.
What is the first step in learning how solar cells work?
The first step in operating a solar panel is to capture the sun's energy. When sunlight hits solar panels, they activate and absorb solar energy. The solar cells, which make up the surface of the panel, come to life and convert the energy received into direct current.
What are the disadvantages of solar energy?
Two disadvantages of solar energy are the large roof space required for solar panels and the lack of energy production at night. Installing solar panel systems requires a lot of roof space, which can be difficult for some home styles. And polycrystalline panels have a blue hue, which can contradict the aesthetics of your home. Additionally, solar panels don't work at night, so you need to invest in a solar panel or connect to the grid to light your home during that time.
Read all : Our method
