Go Green
Solar Power is Here

Solar energy is becoming increasingly popular as more homeowners across the country install solar panels on their roofs. By switching to renewable energy sources, individuals not only contribute to environmental sustainability but also enjoy significant returns on their investments. However, since the technology can be complex, it's important to understand how it works before making a commitment.

Solar panels convert sunlight into electricity through a process known as the photovoltaic effect. Here’s a clearer explanation of how it works:

**The Photovoltaic Effect**

At the core of solar energy conversion is the photovoltaic (PV) cell, which is the fundamental component of a solar panel. Typically made from silicon, a semiconductor material, these cells function as follows:

1. Photon Absorption:

Sunlight is made up of tiny packets of energy called photons. When these photons strike a PV cell, they are absorbed by the semiconductor material.

2. Electron Excitation:

The absorbed photons energize electrons within the silicon atoms, causing these electrons to break free from their atomic bonds.

3. Electron Flow:

The PV cell consists of two layers of silicon—one that is positively charged (p-type) and another that is negatively charged (n-type). This configuration creates an electric field that directs the flow of the freed electrons, generating an electric current.

4. Electricity Generation:

The movement of these electrons produces a direct current (DC) of electricity. This process illustrates how solar panels harness sunlight to generate electrical energy efficiently.