Conversion

Now, let’s talk about how this energy is converted into electricity. When the sunlight hits the solar panel, it excites the electrons in the silicon atoms and causes them to become loose and move around. This movement of electrons creates an electric current, which can be captured and used to power our homes and businesses.

So how do we capture this electricity and use it? The photovoltaic cells in a solar panel are arranged in a grid pattern, with positive and negative layers. The loose electrons that are excited by the sunlight are attracted to the positive layer, while the positively charged holes left behind are attracted to the negative layer. This creates an electric current as the electrons flow from the negative layer to the positive layer.

This electric current is then sent to an inverter, which converts the direct current (DC) produced by the solar panel into alternating current (AC), which is the type of electricity that is used in our homes and businesses. From there, the AC electricity is sent to a breaker box and distributed to the various outlets and appliances in our home or business.

So that’s the basic process of how solar panels convert sun energy into electricity. But there’s a lot more to it than that.

Effeciency

 There are many different factors that can affect the efficiency of a solar panel, such as the angle of the panel relative to the sun, the amount of sunlight it receives, and the temperature of the panel.

One of the main factors that affects the efficiency of a solar panel is the angle at which it is installed. The optimal angle for a solar panel will depend on its location and the time of year. For example, if a solar panel is installed in the northern hemisphere, it should be angled towards the south to maximize the amount of sunlight it receives.

Another factor that can affect the efficiency of a solar panel is the amount of sunlight it receives. Solar panels are most efficient when they receive direct sunlight, so it’s important to install them in a location where they will receive as much direct sunlight as possible.

Finally, the temperature of the solar panel can also affect its efficiency. As the temperature of the panel increases, the efficiency of the panel decreases. This is because the heat causes the electrons in the photovoltaic cells to become less mobile, making it more difficult for them to flow and create an electric current.

So there you have it! That’s a basic overview of how solar panels convert sun energy into electricity. Solar panels are a clean, renewable energy source that can help to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and combat climate change. By understanding the science behind solar panels, we can make informed decisions about how to best utilize this technology and make the most of the sun’s energy.

If you’re interested in switching to solar energy in Tehachapi, Bakersfield, or Shafter California, we encourage you to contact Modern Valley Solar for a free consultation. Our team will work with you to assess your energy needs and design a customized solar energy solution to meet your goals. Contact us today to learn more and start saving with solar!