How Do Solar Panels Work? – Create Electricity From Light
Solar Panels are panels that use the power of the sun to convert energy into electricity. A solar cell, solar hot water panel, solar energy module, solar hot air panel or simply solar hot panel is a photovoltaic module, typically a single solar cell assembly placed in a frame for easy installation. Solar panels harness the power of the sun to produce direct current electricity by the photo-electric effect. This electricity is usually used to powerhouse appliances.
There are two types of solar panels. One is the PV (photovoltaic) system and the other is the CSP (combined heat and power) system. The PV system generates electricity from the rays of the sun using PV cells. On the other hand, the CSP system uses heat engines to extract electricity from the heat coming from the atmosphere.
Both the PV and the CSP solar panels need to be specially designed for each kind of application. They can be made using many common materials like aluminium, silicon, copper etc. but for optimum performance, both these kinds of the panel need special materials. The PV solar panels should be made using high-efficiency cadmium aluminium oxide semiconductor that is better than ordinary aluminium or copper. For the CSP system, the material should be highly conductive of sulfur and graphite.
It is important to select the best materials for your solar panels made with the help of a quality designer. He will be able to recommend the right materials depending on your needs and budget. A good designer will be able to customize your requirements according to the location of installation. For example, for an RV it is better to use thin-film solar cells that will produce more electricity.
These thin-film solar panels will not interfere with the life of your battery. You can use it in any condition like hot summers and cold winters. It is a very popular choice for domestic solar panels. It can also be used to generate electricity for your household appliances. Many homeowners are now using such systems for their household electricity needs.
The photovoltaic effect works only when there is direct exposure to sunlight. If you install solar panels in the open then you can generate electricity even during the nighttime when the sun does not give enough photons. This way the rays of the sun can be converted into electricity that can be used for your home needs.
