How Does Solar Work? A Guide To the Process

Solar energy, while not a new concept, is a method of capturing and storing energy harnessed by the sun. It requires very little maintenance outside of installation and produces no emissions while it’s operating. These benefits make it a clean energy choice, so users can have peace of mind about their property’s carbon footprint. 

At 1 Source Solar, we get asked frequently by homeowners, business owners, and farmers how exactly solar energy works. It’s a complex process that requires specialized knowledge and specific equipment. Through this process, we like to keep our customers informed and involved from start to finish. 

Here is our guide to how solar energy works, so you have a better understanding of whether solar is right for you.

Using the Right Equipment: Photovoltaic Cells (PV)

Solar panels are made up of many photovoltaic cells, which are made of semiconductor materials. Each PV cell has two layers of silicon—p-type and n-type—with different electrical properties. The p-type layer has a positive charge, while the n-type has a negative charge, creating an electric field at their junction.

When sunlight hits these PV cells, electrons are released, creating a current. This is called the “photovoltaic effect”. Photons transfer their energy to electrons in the silicon atoms. This energy causes these electrons to break free from their atoms and move across the electric field created by the p-n junction. The movement of these electrons creates an electric current, which is captured by metal contacts on the cell’s surface.

Electric Currents & How They Power Your Property

The electricity generated by solar panels is direct current (DC), but most homes and businesses use alternating current (AC). The high voltage of a direct current is typically too high to run general electricity, which is why an inverter is used to convert the DC electricity from the panels into AC electricity. AC electricity is a lesser current that can safely power appliances, lights, and other electrical devices.

Choose How To Use Your Solar Energy

Probably one of the best things about solar energy is the ability for a solar energy array owner to decide how they want to use it. Converted AC electricity from your solar array can be used immediately to power a building, stored in batteries for later use, or sent back to the grid if it’s not needed right away. Batteries, however,  are not needed with a PV Solar array for their homes or businesses.  Batteries are an option to be utilized in the event of a grid outage or to store energy produced in the day to be used in the evenings when the sun is not shining for utilities that may not credit dollar for dollar on excess kWhs produced – typically by rural electric cooperatives and municipal electric companies. When planning and installing your solar array, you have the power to decide how you want the energy spent.

Learn More About How Solar Works From the Experts at 1 Source Solar

Solar is a clean, sustainable source of energy that is making its way across the nation in popularity. Farmers, business owners, and homeowners alike can take advantage of a solar array for their properties. Our team of solar professionals can meet with you one-on-one to evaluate your property and discuss the right solar array for you. Whether you work with one of the locations in Iowa or Missouri, our Solar Specialists will answer your questions and provide the expert advice you need to get started. Get connected with our team today.