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How Solar Energy Works
How solar energy works sounds like something for the boffins. So I'll try to break it down into simple terms. Photovoltaics, translates as 'photo = light, voltaic = electricity'. This is how we convert the suns energy into electricity. The solar photovoltaic energy (PV) process converts sunlight, the most abundant energy source on the planet directly into electricity. The equipment required for this process has no moving parts and as a result requires minimal maintenance. In addition, the electricity is generated with no emissions and no noise. A PV cell consists of two or more thin layers of semiconducting material, most commonly silicon. When the cell is exposed to light, electrical charges are generated. Knocked free by the energy, electrons are forced by the electric fields within the PV cells to flow in a certain direction which is known as a current. Because there is metal contacts on the top and bottom of the PV cell, we can draw that current off to use externally. The electrical output from a single cell is small, therefore multiple cells are connected together to provide a more useful output. Cells connected in this way are encapsulated (usually behind glass) to form a weatherproof module or panel. Multiple modules can likewise be connected together in order to provide sufficient power for common electrical appliances. So there you have it! I hope this article helped you understand the fundamentals of the process. If you would like to know how solar energy works for a diy solar water heating kit, click the link. Or for a real in-depth look at solar energy, click here . Helpful articles Click on diy solar heating for information on solar water heating. Click on our solar power gadgets for great gift ideas. To return to our global warming page. To return to our solar energy home page.
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