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How Do Solar Panels Convert Light Into Energy?

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For countless homeowners, sunlight is now a go-to alternative to other forms of energy. It comes with many benefits that allow you to save money and generate an endless amount of electricity. Solar is also a clean form of energy that produces little to no waste.

Even if you’re fully aware of the benefits of solar panels, the process of converting sunlight into household energy may still seem a bit confusing. How can sunlight power our homes and appliances? How do solar panels convert all of this energy? The answer to your solar panel energy questions all comes down to the photovoltaic (PV) effect.

Which Elements Are Used?

To better understand the photovoltaic effect, you’ll need to have an idea of which elements are commonly used in solar panels. Many solar panels use silicon, but this high-end alternative can sometimes come with steeper costs. That’s why manufacturers may instead use a combination of other materials in their panels, such as:

  • Copper
  • Indium
  • Gallium
  • Selenide

During the solar panel manufacturing process, tons of PV cells are created. This involves combining strips of negative (n-type) silicon, which carries an extra electron, with positive (p-type) silicon, which has a missing electron. These cells are laid side-by-side under glass to create solar panels.

The Conversion Process

As mentioned before, the PV effect is the process that converts sunlight into other forms of energy. It begins when PV solar cells absorb radiation from the sun. When the sun’s rays hit the PV cell, electrons move and create a flow of electric current. Wires then feed this electricity to a solar inverter that converts the solar energy to alternating current (AC) electricity to power your home.

Saving Money on Solar Panels

One reason you might not have chosen solar energy just yet is the price of manufacturing and installation. Solar panels are expensive to build and can come at a cost when installing. Luckily, there are several ways to save money on solar panels without sacrificing quality.

Understanding solar panels and all their features can help you identify the elements that you want and need in your panels. From there, you simply need to do your research and get quotes. Then, start looking for solar panels with different equipment packages so you can compare costs until you find one that works for your budget and long-term home improvement goals. Lastly, be aware that bigger does not always mean better. Bigger, more commercialized brands may offer solar panels of lesser quality that actually end up costing you more up front.

Solar Panels Done Right

The conversion process may be a little complex, but solar energy ultimately beats the competition for affordability and environmental friendliness. Choosing a company that believes the same is incredibly important. That’s why PES Solar provides homeowners with efficient and inexpensive solar panel systems. To find the panel alternative that saves you the most, contact PES Solar today at [company_phone].

 

Austin Miller

Austin Miller

With over two decades of experience in the solar and electrical contracting industry, Austin Miller brings a wealth of expertise to the table. As the proprietor of PES Solar, his profound understanding of solar energy and its cost-saving potential is unmatched. Austin's unwavering passion for the solar sector drives his mission to help businesses and homeowners maximize their savings while embracing renewable energy solutions.