Photovoltaic (PV) solar cells are manufactured with 2 semi-conductor layers, a layer with a positive charge and the other layer with a negative charge. Sun rays consists of energy particles known as photons. As these solar cells are exposed to sun light, these photons are absorbed by the negatively charged layer.
As photons are absorbed by the negative semiconductor layer, electrons move to the positive semiconductor layer creating a voltage differential. This differential is similar to the voltage differential found in batteries.
If these 2 layers are connected to an electrical circuit, these electrons flow from the positive layer, through the circuit, and back to the negative layer creating an electrical current. This process of photons being absorbed and electrons moving across layers and through the circuit is known as solar energy.
A single cell does not produce a substantial amount of energy (1 or 2 watts). To provide enough electricity to power a house or business, these cells are packaged in a weather resistant package known as a solar module. These modules are then wired together to form solar arrays which provides enough electricity to power a residence or business. You can find out more information regarding solar modules as well as other parts of a solar energy system in our solar energy components section.
Due to the nature of the energy, with no moving mechanical parts and no burning of fuels, solar energy is extremely clean, virtually maintenance free, and absolutely quiet.
