How do solar panels work?
Solar panels are an increasingly popular way to produce clean and renewable energy. They utilize the sun’s radiation and convert it into electrical energy. In this article, we go through how solar panels work and what technology is behind them.
Working principle of solar panels
Solar panels consist of several solar cells, which are components made of semiconductor materials such as silicon. The operation of solar cells is based on the photoelectric phenomenon, where sunlight detaches electrons from the semiconductor material, generating an electric current.
Photoelectric phenomenon
The photoelectric phenomenon is a process in which photons (light particles) hit the surface of the solar cell and transfer their energy to electrons. This energy is enough to remove electrons from atomic bonds, creating free electrons and holes. Free electrons move in an electric circuit, creating an electric current.
Structure of solar panels
Solar panels consist of several layers, the most important of which are:
- Top layer: This layer is usually made of glass or plastic and protects the solar cells from weather conditions.
- Anti-reflective layer: This layer reduces light reflection and improves the efficiency of the cell.
- Semiconductor layer: This is the core of the solar cell where the photoelectric phenomenon takes place. It usually consists of silicon.
- Back layer: This layer acts as an electrical contact and helps collect the generated electric current.
Efficiency of solar panels
The efficiency of solar panels means how much of the sun’s radiation can be converted into electrical energy. Current commercial solar panels usually achieve 15-20% efficiency, but research and development are constantly striving to improve this figure.
Installation and use of solar panels
Solar panels can be installed in various places, such as roofs, walls or the ground. When choosing the installation location, it is important to consider the amount and direction of sunlight. Solar panels also require an inverter to convert the direct current (DC) produced by the panels into alternating current (AC) that can be used in households and on the power grid.
Sources
You can find more information about the function and technology of solar panels from the following sources:
