Did you know the first solar cell was created in the 1880s?
Before its creation, humans had attempted to harness the sun’s power for thousands of years. We used it for agriculture, heating, and other critical daily tasks we often take for granted.
Now, we use technology and photovoltaic cells to convert solar power into something we can use every day, electricity.
How does it work? Keep reading, and we’ll tell you!
What Is Solar Energy?
The energy created by the sun is the most bountiful source of energy on earth. The sun has been around for billions of years and will continue for billions of years, giving us the perfect resource.
The sun releases energy called photons, and the amount that reaches the earth on an hourly basis is theoretically enough to power the entire globe for a year.
Harnessing that energy by using solar panels for your home or business can help relieve dependence on fossil fuels and combat the climate crisis.
How Do Solar Cells Work?
Solar panels are made of smaller pieces called photovoltaic cells. These cells are made up of semiconducting materials like silicon and are stacked on top of each other, kind of like a sandwich.
The photovoltaic cells then need to establish an electrical field. To create the field, the solar panel manufacturers feed the silicon with other materials like phosphorous or boron to charge each silicon semiconductor as positive or negative.
Once one layer has a positive charge and the other has a negative charge, you get an electric field between the silicon layers. Once the sun hits the cell, electrons are knocked free and pushed through the silicon layers, creating electricity!
How Can You Use Solar?
Now that the cost of solar energy has dropped over the last ten years or so, it’s more accessible. If you are interested in powering your home with solar energy, there are many options out there now!
There are a few different solar system options on the market. You can get one that works in tandem with your current utility grid, one with a battery backup to prevent outages at your home, or you can go off-grid entirely!
Research the best solar company or solar installation company in your area and get a quote on a smart solar system or whatever system will work for your needs.
You can save a ton of money with a solar system over the years. There are rebates, tax incentives, and other ways to protect not only your wallet but the environment as well.
Now You Know How Photovoltaic Cells Work!
The science behind photovoltaic cells is quite fascinating. Using the most abundant source of energy on earth makes sense when it comes to electricity!
Do you want to find out more about the solar industry? What about technology in general? Click over to some of our other pages to find another fascinating article to read today!
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