How do solar panels create electricity?

But if you want to explore how solar panels create electricity a bit more, we'll explain what you should know. Solar cells are typically made from a material called silicon, which generates electricity through a process known as the photovoltaic effect.

Do solar panels generate electricity during the day?

Solar panels require sunlight to generate electricity, so they do not generate electricity during the day. However, home solar systems typically generate excess electricity during the day, which can be stored in batteries or sent to the local grid in exchange for net metering credits.

How does a solar photovoltaic system produce electricity?

A solar photovoltaic system produces electricity directly from the sun’s light through a series of physical and chemical reactions known as the photovoltaic effect. Let’s examine each of these systems in more detail.

Should you use solar power to generate electricity at home?

Using solar power to generate electricity at home is a very appealing option for a number of reasons: not only would you be reducing your overall environmental footprint and greenhouse gas emissions, but you would be reducing your bills and could even generate some income by selling back excess energy into the grid.

How does the photovoltaic effect occur?

The photovoltaic effect occurs when photons from the sun’s rays hit the semiconductive material (typically silicon) in the cell of the solar module. The photons activate electrons, causing them to free themselves from the semiconductive material. Photons hit the solar panel causing electrons to be freed during the photovoltaic effect.

What is a photovoltaic (PV) cell?

A photovoltaic (PV) cell, commonly called a solar cell, is a nonmechanical device that converts sunlight directly into electricity. Some PV cells can convert artificial light into electricity. Sunlight is composed of photons, or particles of solar energy.