First, solar panels collect solar radiation from the sun and converts this solar energy into usable electricity. The more concentrated and powerful the sunlight is, the greater the output number of watts the home or commercial building receives. When installing the solar panels they are positioned to face the direction of the sun, with limited obstacles above or to the sides of the panels. In doing this, it allows photons from the rays of the sun to hit the solar panel in a direct and highly efficient fashion. Most solar cells are made up of the silicon element, which are full of electrons. These electrons in the silicon cells absorb the photons that hit their surface, and if the photon is able to give the electron(s) enough of a charge, the electron then transforms into a “conduction electron“. A conduction electron enables it to maintain and carry an electric charge. Check out the diagram below.

The only negative effect of using the silicon element in solar panels is the that its lifespan is around 20-25 years and need be replaced thereafter. Other than that, solar panels are a highly resourceful and viable source of renewable energy. For a more detailed guide on how solar panels work, please visit “How Solar Panels Work” written by Michael Pollick. This article gives a detailed and technical spin on how solar panels work and the many working parts within the solar panel.