How Does Solar Energy Work

Solar power is an area of interest for many people who are concerned about the environment we live in and the dwindling supply of natural resources available to us. When searching for alternatives to fossil fuels, this is the topic that comes up most often. For those who are just beginning their research into solar energy and it’s possible benefits to home owners, this article is a great place to start and should provide you with some valuable information. As the heading suggests this is a brief description of solar energy, and if you have ever asked how does solar energy work this is a good general introduction. This article will cover photovoltaic cells and how they create electricity.

Solar power system technology has advanced a great deal since its beginnings due largly to demand. A photovoltaic cell is a device that generates electricity by reacting to the suns light rays. To generate a useful amount of electricity, many of these cells are combined to create a solar panel. These panels are also known as photovoltaic cells, solar cells or solar panels.

A solar panel typically generates 12 volts DC (Direct Current). These panels can be used individually or they can be wired together in what is called a solar array. The number of panels used in the array is determined by a number of factors such as sunlight but here are many other factors that determine solar power effectiveness.

Some factors that determine how well solar energy works

• The amount of electricity required
• How much sunlight is available
• Weather conditions - the conditions on any given day
• Climate - Weather patterns over a long period of time. Early morning fog for example.
• Location
• Pollution (smog)
• Air Density

In most situations, you will require some way to store the power that is generated by your solar system. This is accomplished with batteries. Batteries will store the electricity until it is needed. In some areas homeowners who remain connected to the electrical utility grid can sell surplus electricity that they generate back to the electric company for credits. During high demand or low supply times these credits can be used to buy electricity back from the utility, everybody wins.