What is solar energy?

What is solar energy?

In the simplest terms, solar energy is energy derived from sunlight. The sun releases particles of light called photons. When photons come into contact with solar panels, it forces electrons free from atoms, which creates an electrical flow that can be converted into solar thermal energy or electrical energy.

Sun energy is a form of renewable energy, meaning it doesn’t use up natural resources or harm the environment. When it comes to harnessing those photons into energy, there are two main types of solar energy technologies: photovoltaic cell (PV) and concentrating solar power (CSP). Both convert sun energy into electrical power.

How does solar energy work?
The most practical and common application of solar energy today for residential use is solar panels. PV panels are made up of many solar cells that have semiconductor materials to capture the light. When the sunlight hits those cells, electrons are knocked loose, creating an electric current. The electrons flow through a circuit on the panels and generate electricity.

Solar panels are made up of a collection of photovoltaic cells, commonly referred to as PV cells. The PV cells absorb sunlight and generate a direct current, which is then converted into alternating current electricity by an inverter. As the most important part of a solar energy system, a solar inverter converts the direct current (DC) output of a PV panel into alternative 240V currents (AC) that then feed energy into the home. Alternating current electricity is what powers your home. The more panels on a home or business, the more energy that can be created.

The energy that a panel can produce will vary by location and its available sunlight, but in general, most home solar panels have power output ratings ranging from 250 to 400 watts, with an average of about 320. The efficiency of your solar panels and how much electricity you require in your home will dictate the number of solar panels you need.

Solaracks can supply Solar panel racking system for your solar energy project.