How solar cells or photovoltaic cells produce electricity…

 How solar cells or photovoltaic cells produce electricity…

The energy produced by the sun is the most abundant and absolutely freely available energy on earth. In order to utilize this energy, we need to use a complete set of components like PV panels, Inverter, Batteries etc. to convert solar energy to useable electricity.

This process of conversion of solar energy into electrical energy is carried out through few steps, which I have discussed below in detail.

Steps:

1- Sunlight Activates Solar Panel.

2- Production of Electricity by PV Cells.

3- Electric Power Conversion (DC to AC).

4- Converted AC Electricity Usage at Residential/Commercial level

5- Net Metering Mechanism

Sunlight Activates Solar Panel:

To Utilize solar energy from the Sun and to be converted into useable electricity, Solar Panel is the major component.

Thus, a Solar panel is a device designed to absorb sun rays as a source of energy for generating electricity.

A solar panel is made up of a large collection of Photovoltaic cells that are electrically connected to one another. These cells are then mounted into a support frame, and a glass casing surrounded by a special film.

To make more electricity and get maximum output, solar cells can be linked together in a solar module, and many modules can be joined together in a solar array (Also called a string).

Production of Electricity by PV Cells:

Solar cells are made up of a type of material known as a semiconductor. Mostly, they are made of silicon.

A typical simple solar cell has two layers of semiconductors. One is known as n-type (Negative) and the other is p-type (Positive).

The process of Production of electricity started when the semiconductor atoms (silicon) absorb some light. This light’s energy knocks some electrons out of the atoms. The electrons flow between the two layers and this flow of electrons makes an electric current. The electric current produced can leave the cell through the metal contacts and be used.

Electric Power Conversion (DC to AC):

As the electricity generated by the solar cells is a Direct Current (DC Power) and can’t be used directly in our houses, as most of our house equipment’s are Alternating Current (AC Power) operated.

For this Purpose, Solar Inverter is used to convert the DC power generated by the solar panels into AC power. In modern solar energy systems, these inverters can be configured as one inverter for the entire system, called string inverter or central inverter and or as Microinverters, that are individually attached behind each panel.

Converted AC Electricity Usage at Residential/Commercial Level:

Once the DC power produced by solar panels is converted with the help of an inverter, the AC power produced can be easily used to power electrical equipment.

The Electricity generated is the same as the electric power generated through the grid by the utility power company and no changes are required to your existing electrical wiring system at the house.

Net Metering Mechanism:

Power from the grid (utility company) costs money. If some of a home’s power is generated from solar panels, the home can use less grid power. For this purpose, the Net Metering mechanism is introduced. A smart energy meter is used that has the functionality of measuring the electricity flow in both directions (to and from your home).

So, with Net Metering if you are having extra solar power production and less solar power usage, this extra solar power is bought by the electric company.

Conclusion:

By knowing the basics of solar energy, we can now conclude that solar energy is one of the most important, environment friendly and economical renewable energy sources.