How Does Solar Power Work
To understand how solar electricity works we need to first understand what solar energy is.
Solar energy is the light or heat energy that travels to us on earth from the sun. Solar Electricity or power is generated by collecting this light and/or heat energy from the sun and converting that energy into usable electricity. The conversion of the solar energy to solar electricity is clean, pollution free and, in reality, will never end.
The conversion of solar energy to solar electricity takes place via a solar cell often called PV or photovoltaic cell. A PV cell is a semiconductor, generally thin wafers of silicon joined together and covered by a non reflective material. A collection of PV cells connected together is called a panel or module. When the solar energy falls on the PV cells an electrical current is produced. This current is a DC or direct current. This current is directed to an inverter. An inverter converts the direct current (DC) generated by PV cells or panels into alternating current (AC). This is the form of electricity conventionally used in homes. Depending on the type of system used the DC power may then stored in batteries or the converted AC power fed back into the electricity grid via the electricity meter on your house.
Solar power systems (photovoltaics) are often confused with solar thermal technology, which is usually used for water heating (solar hot water).
Most solar power systems have the PV modules installed on a roof of your home. Most homes or commercial buildings will need around 10 square metres of unshaded, north-facing roof space to mount the PV modules to allow for a 1kW or 1000 watt solar system. Ideally in the southern hemisphere the modules should be tilted towards the sun at around 30 degrees to maximise the solar collection but there is a simple calculation based on your homes position to ensure the correct angle is achieved. Cloud cover and shading can dramatically reduce a solar power system’s output.
