How Do Solar Panels Work?
Solar energy is an excellent source that has the potential to greatly reduce environmental pollution. Unfortunately, it’s recognized as an “alternative energy” since it isn’t an energy source used by a majority of the population. One of the main reasons is that it’s still quite costly to manufacture. Right now, calculators and decorative outdoor lights are a couple of the most popular solar powered gadgets. The question remains, how do solar panels work? How does setting up a small panel, directed towards the sun, turn the sunlight into the electricity that keeps those pretty, bluish bright lights lighting up the walkway all night long?
The basic answer is that certain materials are used to harness the sun’s energy and convert it into electricity which can be used to power our electronic devices. But it’s a bit more complex.
An important, budding technology involving solar energy that’s being used today is photovoltaic (PV) electricity. This is the use of unique materials that convert solar energy into electricity, and this electricity is either stored through the use of DC batteries or it can be used instantly.
Photovoltaic technology includes the use of specific materials that have been recently developed. These materials discharge electrons when persuaded and influenced by solar power. This creates a voltage potential as well as electricity flow. A photovoltaic panel is also called a ‘direct energy conversion device’ since all of these effects are taking place on an atomic level minus any moving parts.
Historically, only space age technology used photovoltaic panels. Space stations and satellites used them because they were a reliable source for continuous solar energy conversion. The extra bonus that using them in outer space has is that the sun’s radiation is at least 50% stronger than it is here on Earth.
A good candidate for solar energy is someone living a mile or more from an electrical grid since it’s a lot more costly to install power transmission cables than it is to install a solar panel kit. If this is you, then maybe it’s time to consider solar energy as your main power source.
Still, how do solar panels work? Understanding solar energy can help answer this question. Solar energy’s made up of two kinds of radiation, and the most desirable for solar panels is called “beam radiation”. This is what we feel when soaking up sun rays on the beach in June, when there’s not a cloud in the sky. Clear days are the best for collecting beam radiation, but the solar panel needs to be placed strategically to gather the most direct sun rays possible if you want to get the most from your solar panel.
The other kind of radiation is “diffuse radiation”. This radiation is strewn all over the place (as its name suggests). On a cloudy day, it’s the primary radiation source for a solar panel. It’s the same thing if you’re relaxing under a shade tree diffuse radiation is what you’re going to get. Unfortunately diffuse radiation isn’t very strong and relying on it alone for solar energy isn’t practical.
For solar panels to work efficiently, a sunny location is mandatory. Beam radiation is the most effective since it’s the strongest. Most of Western America qualifies as a good locale for beam radiation those states are good candidates for the use of solar energy, but northern climates and coastal states are usually quite cloud-laden and sadly, not worthy of 100% solar-reliance.
Solar panels can be built to meet special needs. 12 volt, 24 volt and 48 volt DC systems are the most popular. 12 volt solar panels can survive for over 20 years and are about 12-14% efficient.
Solar power is still “alternative energy”, and part of that is due to its high cost to produce. They’re so expensive because they are made of supremely pure silicon semi-conductor materials. New materials are being explored and they’re geared toward lowering production costs, making solar energy more readily available to the general public. Cadmium Telluride based solar panels are one of the new technologies being explored, and if these are successful materials then solar panels should become more affordable for the average citizen. This is great news for the environment as more and more people convert to solar energy, the atmosphere can begin to heal.
It’s unfortunate that solar energy is still considered “alternative energy”, but that’s all changing. If you’re considering a conversion to solar power then there are specific considerations to be made upon deciding, but it’s definitely a step in the right direction for our planet. The benefits outweigh the cost as far as our environment is concerned, especially the long term effects. Energy independence is a common goal for all, and if you just want to consider solar energy as a back up plan, then the decision is practically already made for you. Why not? The environment will benefit greatly once solar panels become financially available to all.
To learn more on how do solar panels work get more information here.
