How Solar Panels Turn Sunlight into Electricity

It seems like magic: a simple panel on your roof captures sunlight and powers your entire home. The science behind it, known as the photovoltaic effect, is fascinating and surprisingly straightforward.

1. The Photovoltaic Cell

Your solar panels are made up of many smaller units called photovoltaic (PV) cells. These cells are typically made from silicon and are designed with a positive and a negative layer, creating an electric field.

2. Capturing Sunlight

When sunlight (composed of tiny particles of energy called photons) strikes the PV cell, it knocks electrons loose from their atoms. These free electrons are then captured by the electric field within the cell.

3. Generating DC Current

The flow of these captured electrons creates a direct current (DC) of electricity. This is similar to the electricity produced by a battery.

4. Conversion to AC Current

Your home's appliances run on alternating current (AC), not DC. This is where the inverter comes in. This crucial piece of equipment takes the DC electricity from your solar panels and converts it into usable AC electricity.

From the inverter, the electricity flows into your home's electrical panel, ready to power your lights, appliances, and everything else. Any excess power can be sent back to the grid, often earning you credits from your utility company!