Solar Panels - how they work and why they're the future of energy

Whether you've already considered installing solar panels on your home's roof or simply want to better understand how these devices work, this is the right article for you.

If you belong to the latter group, this simple explanation might just inspire you to join the first group of people who have already taken the first step toward contributing to the renewable energy movement.

1. What Are Solar Panels?
2. A Brief History of Solar Panels
3. How Do Solar Panels Work?
4. Advantages of Solar Panels

What Are Solar Panels?

Solar panels are devices that convert sunlight into electrical energy. These panels consist of a series of solar cells (photovoltaic cells) made from materials like silicon, which have the ability to absorb photons from the Sun's rays. When photons hit these cells, they initiate electronic processes and generate electricity.

The result is clean, renewable energy that can power homes, businesses, vehicles—electricity is electricity; solar panels are only different in that they produce electricity that is much less harmful to the environment.

A Brief History of Solar Panels

Throughout history, people have played and harnessed the power of the Sun for various purposes. However, the significant strides toward the solar panels we have today began in the 19th century when scientists discovered the photovoltaic effect. French physicist Alexandre-Edmond Becquerel was the first to notice that certain materials produce electric current when exposed to light. This discovery laid the foundation for the development of modern solar panels.

During the 20th century, researchers and innovators worldwide worked on improving the efficiency of solar cells and expanding their practical applications. NASA played a crucial role in promoting solar panels during space missions, where they were used to supply electricity to spacecraft.

After many years of research and development, solar panels became ubiquitous in modern society in the late 20th and early 21st centuries.

Today, we use them to power homes, businesses, satellites, and electric vehicles. You probably notice solar panels on the roofs of houses and in fields frequently. Research in solar technologies continues to advance, and solar energy is expected to play a key role in our transition to a more sustainable and cleaner future.

Are you ready to play your part? 😊

How Do Solar Panels Work?

To better understand how solar panels function, let's consider a few key steps in their operation:

Absorption of Sunlight:

Sunlight consists of tiny energy particles known as photons. Each photon carries a specific amount of energy depending on its wavelength. When sunlight hits the surface of solar panels, photons are absorbed by the cells in the panels.

This is where the magic begins—absorbing sunlight converts photons into electrons. This phase is crucial for generating electrical energy from sunlight.

Generation of Electric Current:

Let's explore the science behind the magic of the previous step 😊.

Solar panels are made of special materials, typically silicon, whose electrons are at specific energy levels or 'energy bands'. When a photon hits the surface of a solar panel, the absorption process occurs. If a photon has enough energy, it can 'knock' an electron out of its position. This electron moves freely through the material of the solar panel under the influence of an electric field that exists within the cells.

When many photons hit the solar panel, numerous free electrons are generated, leading to the creation of an electric current. This process is called the photoelectric effect and is the foundation for the operation of all solar panels.

Current Inversion:

The generated electrical current, initially in the form of direct current (DC), then passes through a device called an inverter. The inverter converts DC current into alternating current (AC), which is used in our homes and commercial systems.

Energy Storage and Usage:

The energy produced by solar panels can be used to power electrical devices in real-time, while excess energy can be stored in batteries for use when sunlight is unavailable, such as during the night or on cloudy days.

This process is surprisingly simple at its core—a testament to how a little human science, combined with what nature already provides us, can make significant strides in technological development and progress. Perhaps even more importantly, it contributes to the preservation of our home - our planet.

Advantages of Solar Panels

Great! We now understand the basic principles of how solar panels work. Let us then consider some of the key advantages of these devices – WHY would we use them:

Clean and Renewable Energy:

Solar panels produce energy without emitting harmful gases or causing pollution, making them an environmentally friendly source of energy.

Reduced Electricity Bills:

Using solar panels can significantly reduce electricity costs over time, saving you a substantial amount of money.

Independence from the Grid:

Solar panels allow you to become less dependent or independent from the traditional electrical grid, which is particularly useful in rural areas or during power outages.

Longevity and Low Maintenance:

Solar panels are durable and require minimal maintenance. Most manufacturers offer long warranties on their panels, as well as servicing options at affordable rates.

So, what are you waiting for?

Installing solar panels seems like a rational decision, whether you are driven by environmental concerns or simply want to reduce your electricity bills.

However, the Solarise team understands that this is a significant investment in terms of both money and time for researching the market, offers, manufacturers, installers, and more.

That's why we are here to make this process as easy as possible and tailor it to your preferences and possibilities—visit our website and take the first step toward transitioning to solar energy 😊

Tina Mihajlović and the SolaRise Team