Solar panels have become a key component of many homes, businesses, and public infrastructure. So, how do solar panels work? This article will introduce you to relevant questions such as how solar panels work and their main uses.
Understanding Solar Panels
Solar cells, also known as "solar chips" or "photocells", are photoelectric semiconductor sheets that use sunlight to directly generate electricity. Single solar cells cannot be used directly as power sources. As a power source, several single solar cells must be connected in series, connected in parallel, and tightly sealed into components.
Solar panels (also called solar cell modules) are assembled by multiple solar cells, which are the core part of the solar power system and the most important part of the solar power system.
Solar Panels Principle of Work
How do solar cells work?
The working principle of crystalline silicon n/p-type solar cells: When the p-type semiconductor and the n-type semiconductor are tightly combined into one piece, a p-n junction is formed at the interface of the two. When the photovoltaic cell is irradiated by sunlight, the accumulation of positive and negative charges is formed on both sides of the p-n junction, a photovoltaic voltage is generated, and a built-in electric field is formed. This is the "photovoltaic effect." Theoretically speaking, at this time, if electrodes are drawn on both sides of the built-in electric field and an appropriate load is connected, a current will be formed and power will be obtained from the load. Solar cell modules are solid-state devices that use the electronic properties of semiconductor materials to achieve PV conversion.
Basic composition of solar energy system
The solar power generation system is composed of solar cell components, solar controllers, and batteries (groups). If the output power is AC 220V or 110V, an inverter is also required.
The role of each part is:
Solar panels: The solar panels are the core part of the solar power system and the most valuable part of the solar power system. Its function is to convert the sun's radiant power into electric energy, or send it to the storage battery for storage, or drive the load to work.
Solar controller: The function of the solar controller is to control the working status of the entire system, and to protect the battery from overcharging and over-discharging. In places with large temperature differences, a qualified controller should also have the function of temperature compensation. Other additional functions such as light control switch and time control switch should be optional options of the controller.
Batteries: generally lead-acid batteries, nickel-metal hydride batteries, nickel-cadmium batteries or lithium batteries can also be used in small and micro systems. Its function is to store the electric energy generated by the solar panel when there is light, and then release it when needed.
Inverter: The direct output of solar energy is generally 12VDC, 18VDC (ITEHIL lightweight solar panels), 24VDC, 48VDC. In order to provide electrical energy to 220VAC electrical appliances, the DC power generated by the solar power generation system needs to be converted into AC power, so a DC-AC inverter is required. Efficiency is one of the important criteria when purchasing an inverter. The higher the efficiency, the lower the power loss in the process of converting the direct current generated by the optoelectronic component into alternating current. It can be said that the quality of the inverter determines the efficiency of the power generation system, and it is the core of the solar power generation system.
What are solar panels made of?
Solar panels are usually made of the following parts:
- Silicon wafer: the core component of solar panels, composed of silicon materials such as monocrystalline silicon, polycrystalline silicon, and amorphous silicon;
- Backplane: made of materials such as glass, polyester film, aluminum, or stainless steel, it plays a role in protecting and supporting silicon wafers;
- Current-carrying circuit: completes the electron transfer between positive and negative electrodes by connecting silicon wafers;
- Packaging materials: use polystyrene resin, EVA, and other materials to seal and protect solar panels.
So, what are the main materials of solar panels?
The main materials of solar panels are silicon wafers and back panels.
Silicon wafers, especially monocrystalline silicon wafers, are one of the most commonly used materials for manufacturing solar panels. Monocrystalline silicon wafers have high conversion rates and excellent stability, and their production process is also very mature. Polycrystalline silicon and amorphous silicon wafers are widely used in certain specific fields because their production process is relatively simple and their prices are much lower than monocrystalline silicon.
The choice of backplane material depends on the characteristics of the environment in which it is located. Glass materials are usually used in large solar power stations; aluminum backplanes are relatively light and not easily damaged, suitable for home use; and in some harsh environments, such as wind and sand and marine climates, stainless steel backplanes will show better corrosion resistance.
The main purpose of solar panels
The main uses of solar panels are as follows:
- Generate electricity and deliver it to the grid
- Traffic field, Such as RV travel, outdoor camping
- Communication/Communication Field
- Petroleum/Marine/Meteorological Field
- Power supply for homes and commercial buildings
- Photovoltaic power station
- Solar building
- Outdoor and field power supply
- Portable charging equipment
- Agriculture and irrigation
In summary, solar panels play a very important role in various fields. They can reduce dependence on traditional energy, reduce energy consumption costs, and promote the popularization and sustainable development of clean energy. Therefore, the application scenarios of solar panels will be more extensive in the future.
Specific Benefits of Solar Panels
- Solar panels can be installed anywhere. They can improve the quality of life in remote areas without stable grid coverage.
- Solar panels can save energy costs. Installing solar panels can reduce energy expenditures for businesses or households with large electricity consumption.
- Solar panels generate electricity very quietly and do not make any noise. Therefore, installing solar panels will not cause any disturbance to you.
- Solar panels are environmentally friendly and pollution-free. Because the sun is a clean and renewable energy source, it does not produce carbon dioxide or other harmful emissions, reducing the burden on the environment and helping to alleviate climate change.
- Solar panels have a high safety factor. Because it is made of silicon wafers, it will not leak any poisons.
What is the lifespan of solar panels?
Generally speaking, the service life of solar panels can reach about 25 to 30 years. However this is only a rough range, and the actual service life will be affected by many factors. For example, the quality of solar panel materials, installation location, and use environment.
The quality of solar panels is one of the key factors that determine their service life. High-quality solar panels use higher quality materials and more advanced processes, which can resist erosion from the external environment and internal losses.
The installation location and use environment also have an important impact on the life of solar panels. If installed in areas with harsh climates, strong winds, sand, or serious pollution, its surface is prone to erosion and wear, which will affect the photoelectric conversion efficiency and service life. On the contrary, if it is installed in areas with mild climates and clean environments and is well maintained, its service life may be longer.
How to Choose Solar Panels
If you are using it outdoors or camping, it is recommended that you choose a solar panel that is portable and durable. For example, the ITEHIL foldable solar panel uses Japan's advanced composite ETFE film to increase light transmittance and extend service life. IPX4 Oxford waterproof fabric and zipper make it easier to clean. The 4-fold panel increases the illumination area and conversion efficiency.
ITEHIL Foldable Solar Panel It is suitable for outdoor camping, power supply for electrical appliances in RVs, power supply for small electrical appliances in the home, and power supply for common electronic products such as mobile phones, computers, and tablets.
FAQ
How often do solar panels need cleaning?
If you live in an area with high rainfall, it is recommended to check and clean it every six months to ensure efficiency. If you live in a dusty or sandstorm area, it is recommended to clean it every 1-2 months to avoid a significant drop in power generation efficiency. If there are many trees near the solar panel, leaves, pollen, and bird droppings may affect its surface, and it is recommended to clean it every 3 months.
Therefore, regular inspection and timely cleaning of solar panels can ensure their optimal operation.
Do solar panels require a lot of maintenance?
Solar panels have relatively low maintenance requirements, but simple regular maintenance can extend their lifespan and keep them running efficiently.
How long does it take for solar panels to start generating electricity?
As long as there is enough sunlight, it can start generating electricity immediately.
