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With so much happening around the solar world, you may be wondering what it is that those shiny blue panels atop all those homes and buildings are made of. How is it that those solar panels actually turn sunlight into energy?
This is a process we at Energy Solution Providers love explaining to just about anyone who will listen. Our passion for the renewable energy that comes from solar panels has led to a deep understanding of the science and construction behind them. So, what is it that makes up the renewable energy power of solar panels?
The Anatomy of a Solar Panel
It’s likely that you already know the basics and benefits of solar panels: the sun shines on solar panels, they turn that light into electricity for your home, and you save money on your energy bills.
Most solar panels are made up of 4 basic components:
A metal frame
Standard 12V Wire
Silicon solar cells
Glass sheet or Plexiglass for casing
The silicon cells are extremely fragile, so mounting them cleanly within the metal frame and underneath the glass is essential to maintaining efficiency for the lifespan of the solar panel (which should be around 25 years.) Solar panels are primarily mounted on the roof, but ground mounting is also possible and may be better for your energy goals, depending on your situation.
How Do Solar Panels Generate Electricity?
It can seem like magic, that all it takes is the light from a sun that’s 93 million miles away to create energy you use to watch Netflix and cook enchiladas in the oven. But the truth is that it’s mostly chemistry! Silicon solar cells are made up of silicon — an element you would find on the periodic table. When sunlight hits silicon, the electrons inside the cell begin to move, creating an energy flow. This energy is then channeled to an inverter using bus wiring and converted into the electricity you use in your home.
Get All Your Solar Questions Answered
When you are looking to go solar, there are a lot of questions to be answered. From the construction, the science, and the mounting, to the energy savings, you deserve to know all there is to know about going solar. That’s why Energy Solution Providers has made it a priority to be available to answer all of your questions before you commit to going solar (including how you can benefit from all available incentives and rebates). So, if you are still confused, don’t hesitate to call our experts!