How Solar Power Works

The sun is so powerful that each day it provides us with more energy than we need to meet our power needs for the next 30 years. But how many stop to think how solar power works?

It makes a lot of sense to take advantage of this free alternative energy source but the science behind it all is very interesting as well. Even if you are only looking to save some money or help the environment, learning about solar energy can still be fun and exciting.

How Solar Power Works at the Atomic Level

Solar power cells are typically made out of silicon crystals that have a unique atomic structure that makes them a good choice for solar power applications.

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These crystals are made up of billions of silicon atoms that are all bonded together in an array which gives it the crystalline shape. The atoms are energetically bonded together by the sharing of electrons between interconnected atoms.

Sunlight is a form of energy that is made up of particles, or packets, commonly referred to as photons. As these photons (energy particles) collide with the silicon crystals of the solar cell, they contain enough energy to knock some of these electrons loose allowing them to move freely.

These free moving electrons are what create the electrical current that you use for electricity. The more electrons that are freed, the more electricity is generated.

How Solar Power Works at the Solar Cell Level

The silicon crystals mentioned above are grown in laboratories to certain specifications and cut into very thin wafer disks which are called solar cells, or photovoltaic cells. These wafers are nothing more than a large network of silicon crystals with added materials to improve solar performance.

These silicon wafers are then cut to size and aligned together properly to create a solar cell. Electrically conductive metal strips are then attached to the solar cell to provide a path for the current, or electricity, to flow.

How Solar Power Works at the Solar Panel Level

Each solar power cell is responsible for producing a small amount of electricity which on its own might not be of much benefit. But these cells can be connected together to generate a much greater amount of power. These photovoltaic cells are electrically connected together to form a solar panel with the desired voltage while generating the desired current or electricity.

Keep in mind that this is more of a simplistic view of how solar energy works. The physics and chemistry involved go much deeper than what is presented here. But this overview is a good starting point for understanding what exactly is happening during the solar energy conversion process.

There are plenty of solar power projects and applications available that will further help you understand how solar power works through firsthand experience. A great starting point is to get a hold of an inexpensive ebook that can help you both learn how it all works while building your own solar panel that you can actually use to help power your own home.

Many people continue to make solar panels and expand their solar power system to produce a significant amount of their home’s energy. These types of projects end up paying for themselves as you save money on your power bill each month. Who would have thought that learning how solar power works could be one of the best investments of your life?

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