Why are solar panels important?

The fundamental technology behind solar panels enables them to perform a vital function: providing a clean and renewable energy source. By reducing reliance on traditional fossil fuels, solar panels contribute to a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and help pave the way towards a more sustainable future.

What is solar energy?

Solar energy refers to the energy harnessed from the sun’s rays. The sunlight we receive on Earth is composed of photons, which are tiny particles of energy. Solar panels capture these photons and convert them into usable electricity.

How do solar panels work?

The sunlight we receive on Earth is composed of photons, which are tiny particles of energy. Solar panels capture these photons and convert them into usable electricity. The core technology behind solar panels is the photovoltaic effect, which occurs when photons hit a semiconductor material (typically silicon) and excite its electrons.

Are solar panels affordable?

Since 2008, hundreds of thousands of solar panels have been installed across the country as more and more Americans choose solar energy for their daily lives. Investments from the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Energy Technologies Office (SETO) have made solar energy more affordable for American consumers.

How do solar panels produce electricity?

Solar Energy Capture: When sunlight hits a solar panel, the energy from the light particles (photons) is absorbed by the silicon cells. Electrons Get Excited: Absorbed energy excites the silicon atoms, causing electrons to break free and move. This movement creates an electric current.

How efficient are solar panels?

Efficiency is a measure of how much of the sun’s potential energy a panel will convert into solar power. Most panels have an efficiency rating of between 15-23%. You shouldn’t worry too much about panel efficiency. High-efficiency panels only matter where you have a small space to work with. They do however cost more.