How Solar Panels Work
Solar panels work through what is called a photovoltaic process – where radiation energy (photo) is absorbed and generates electricity (voltaic).
Radiation energy is absorbed by semi conductor cells – normally silicon – and transformed from photo energy (light) into voltaic (electrical current).
When the sun’s radiation hits a silicon atom, a photon of light energy is absorbed, ‘knocking off’ an electron. These released electrons create an electric current.
This current goes to charge controller which is placed between a solar panel and a battery.
