We’ve always been fed information about how solar panels and the electricity they generate are beneficial to our environment. From being renewable to its ability to power our daily lives without producing too much emissions, we’re all aware of the effects of solar power adoption. But what goes on behind the scenes and how does the system work to pump out electricity without harming the Earth? We’ll go into the details below!
The Sun’s Electromagnetic Spectrum
The sunlight we see may look like it contains only one ray of light. But the truth is, it emits energy that reaches the Earth in a broad spectrum. Also known as electromagnetic radiation, it consists of ultraviolet (UV) rays, visible light, and infrared (IR) radiation.
However, solar panels don’t use all of these wavelengths and frequencies. Instead, it leverages only the visible light spectrum with wavelengths ranging from 400 to 700 nanometers for effective photovoltaic (PV) conversion. If you’re wondering why not UV or IR? Solar panels cannot efficiently capture the former, whereas the latter converts to heat.
Photovoltaic (PV) Conversion in Solar Panels
When sun energy strikes the solar panels, photons in visible light stimulate the semiconductor material encapsulated within the solar cells, usually crystalline silicon, and transfer energy to the electrons inside. These cells, which have both positive and negative charged layers, are arranged in grids to generate a larger and more substantial amount of electricity and to facilitate the flow of electric current.
As the electrons absorb this energy, they transition from a lower to a higher energy state. This excites the electrons, knocking them free from their atoms and out of their usual positions, leaving a positively-charged hole known as an electron-hole pair.
The energised electrons then pass through the semiconductor material, creating an electric current. This is known as the photovoltaic effect, and it is the fundamental principle behind solar panel technology and energy conversion.
Learn More: Materials Used for Your Solar Panel System
DC to AC Current
The electrical current generated when electrons are excited isn’t suitable for use yet. It’s in the form of direct current (DC), which must be converted to alternating current (AC) before it can be used. AC is the standard form of electricity used in buildings and on the electrical grid.
The DC electricity generated by the solar panel undergoes conversion into usable AC energy by a solar inverter. This energy is harnessed to power all operational needs within the building, with any surplus energy being redistributed to the power grid for sale.
Where Are Solar Panels Installed?
Walk along the streets of Singapore and you’ll realise that there are barely any signs of a solar panel in sight. That’s because they’re strategically installed on rooftops to maximise their exposure to direct sunlight. It is where there is the least obstruction too, allowing the solar PV system to efficiently capture plenty of sunlight for electricity generation.
Even on overcast days, as long as there is a little sunlight, the panels can still absorb photons and produce electricity to power your building, albeit at a lower efficiency. Solar panels don’t just work well with direct light, even diffuse sunlight of less intensity scattered in the atmosphere contains sufficient photons for electrons to be energised.
Want to install solar panels to do your part for our environment? Perry Management Clean Energy specialises in providing roof solar panel installation to help you harness the sun’s power. Get in touch with us to find out more.
