Solar Panels by Universe Solar

1. Sunlight Absorption

Solar panels harness the energy of the sun through solar cells made from semiconductor materials, primarily silicon. When sunlight strikes these cells, it energises the electrons within, causing them to move and create an electric current. This phenomenon is known as the photovoltaic effect. Each cell in the panel captures sunlight and converts it into direct current (DC) electricity.

2. Electric Field Creation

Each solar cell in the panel is equipped with an electric field that drives the flow of the excited electrons. This electric field is created by layering different types of silicon (p-type and n-type) together, forming a p-n junction. This junction allows electrons to flow in a single direction, resulting in the generation of DC electricity.

3. Inverter Conversion

The DC electricity generated by the solar cells cannot be used directly by most household appliances, which run on alternating current (AC) electricity. Therefore, the DC electricity is directed to an inverter. The inverter’s role is to convert the DC electricity into AC electricity. There are different types of inverters, such as string inverters, micro-inverters, and power optimisers, each with specific advantages depending on the solar system’s design and the installation environment.

4. Power Usage and Grid Integration

Once the electricity is converted to AC, it can be used to power your home or business. Any surplus energy that is not immediately used can be fed back into the electrical grid. This process is known as net metering. By feeding excess electricity into the grid, you can earn credits or receive a feed-in tariff from your electricity provider, effectively reducing your energy bills. Additionally, if your system includes a battery storage solution, excess energy can be stored for use during times when the solar panels are not producing electricity, such as at night or during cloudy weather.