Solar Basics¶
What Is Solar Energy?¶
The sun produces energy in the form of light and heat. Solar panels capture that light and convert it directly into electricity.
This is called the photovoltaic (PV) effect — discovered in 1839. The technology has been developing ever since.
How Does a Solar Panel Work?¶
A solar panel is made of solar cells — thin layers of special material (usually silicon) that react to light.
When sunlight hits a solar cell: 1. Photons (light particles) knock electrons loose in the silicon 2. The freed electrons flow in one direction — that's an electrical current 3. Multiple cells connected together make a panel (also called a module) 4. Multiple panels connected together make an array
From Panel to Plug¶
Solar panels produce DC electricity (direct current). Your home appliances use AC electricity (alternating current). A device called an inverter converts DC to AC.
How Much Power Does a Panel Make?¶
A typical residential solar panel today produces about 400 watts in full sun. That's roughly enough to power: - A laptop computer for 4+ hours - A light bulb (LED) for 40+ hours - A phone charger for a full day
An average home solar system has 20–30 panels and produces enough electricity to cover most or all of the home's annual energy use.
What Happens on Cloudy Days?¶
Solar panels still produce electricity on cloudy days — just less. They don't need direct sunlight, they need daylight.
At night, they produce nothing. That's why battery storage systems are becoming popular — store the daytime energy for nighttime use.
Where Is Solar Used?¶
- Rooftops of homes and businesses
- Large commercial buildings
- Solar farms (ground-mount)
- Off-grid cabins and tiny homes
- Boats and RVs
- Spacecraft and satellites