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How do Solar Panels Work?

How do Solar Panels Create Electricity?

Solar panels collect light to create electricity. This process is known as the photovoltaic effect and explains why some people call solar panels photovoltaic, or PV panels. 

Generating Electricity with Solar Panels

A standard solar panel is made up from a layer of silicon cells, encased in a metal frame with a glass protective panel. There is also wiring and electronic components to connect the various components to allow current to flow from the silicon cells.

Silicon has conductive properties that enables it to absorb sunlight and convert it into DC electricity.

The performance of a Solar Panel is determined by the cell type and silicone used  to manufacture it. The main two types of silicon used in solar panel production is monocrystalline and polycristaline silicon. The silicon cell base can be created to give either a positive (p-type) or negative (n-type) silicon.

Residential Solar Panels are made up from 60 monocrystaline or polycrystalline silicon cells. These cells are connected together in series by electrical contacts called busbars to generate a voltage of between 30 and 40 volts. The voltage can vary depending on the type of silicon used.

Solar Panel Construction
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Frequently asked questions

Here are some of the frequently asked questions, if there’s anything else you’d like to know please use our contact form or give us a call.

 

Do Solar Panels need sunlight to work?

Solar Panels use the energy from light, solar panels do not need direct sunlight to work. Even on a cloudy, overcast day a solar panel system will still generate electricity for your home.

How many hours do solar panels need to work?

We know we have more than 4 hours a day of sunlight. If you have a 250 watt solar panel x 4 hours this would give you 1kWh or 1,000 watts per 250 watt solar panel.

Do Solar Panels work at night?

Solar panels need light to generate electricity, they would not work at night.

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Learn More about Solar Panels!

If you are interested in having solar panels installed or have questions about solar panels please get in touch.

 

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Find out more about a solar panel installation for your home or business

What our Customers say

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★★★★★

Very fast and efficient service.very clean and tidy work.wont go anywhere else when i want work done. Fitters very friendly. Thank you for such fast and quick service. Brilliant from me.

Mr Norman

★★★★★

Very happy with my recent install. The company were very professional and helpful, I would definitely recommend

Ms Farrer

★★★★★

Brilliant service, very helpful and professional! would highly recommend these guys

 

Mr Watts

Installing Solar Panels

If you’d like more information on installing a new solar panel system please get in touch. One of our friendly, helpful staff will be happy to discuss the options.