How does a photovoltaic (PV) system work? - Eagle Point Solar

How does a photovoltaic (PV) system work?

The solar panel contains several individual cells which are made largely of two layers of silicon. By design, there is an electronic imbalance between the two layers and when the sun’s photons bombard the cell it knocks the electrons loose. The electrons then “bounce” from the top layer to the bottom layer creating energy. These bouncing electrons are captured as electricity by metal contacts in the panel.

Since the electricity created inside the panel is direct current (DC), it is necessary to push the current through an inverter which creates alternating current (AC). Once converted, this electricity is then routed to your electrical outlets for your use. Watch this short video to learn more about the specifics of a solar cell: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xKxrkht7CpY

Click here to view a graphic on How Solar Works.

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