How do Solar Powered Panels Work?

Australia has the highest solar radiation per square metre of any continent and today approximately 1 in every 4 homes have solar panels installed. The high uptake of solar energy by Australians has had benefits both in terms of cost savings and the environment. Homeowners stand to save tens of thousands of dollars on their energy bills over the lifespan of a residential solar panel system.

If you are considering making the move to solar energy and installing solar powered panels, it’s worth understanding the science behind how it actually works. In this article, we will highlight how solar panels take the sun’s rays and use them to power the kettle in your kitchen and the television in your lounge.

The Science Behind Solar Powered Panels

Solar panels are comprised of a number of different parts. These include solar cells (or photovoltaic cells), a metal frame, wiring, a glass casing, and an inverter. These panels are typically mounted beside each other on residential rooftops to avoid any obstructions (such as shade) and maximise their efficiency.

Each of the solar cells within a solar panel acts as a semiconductor wafer. It has two different layers, one that is positively charged and another that is negatively charged. When these cells are hit by photons from sunlight, they energise, which in turn creates an electric field.

Loose electrons are set into motion within this semiconductor wafer, creating an electric current. The afore-mentioned inverter will then convert the direct current electricity that is created into alternating current electricity. It is this electricity that is used to power kettles and televisions and much more within the home.

If this explanation sounds somewhat scientific, don’t worry, as the actual process of using solar panels is incredibly simple. Solar energy will work in the same way as the electricity that is generated through the main grid. For homeowners, it’s as simple as flicking the light switch or using the remote to turn on the television.

The Main Benefits of Switching to Solar Energy

Let’s quickly highlight some of the main benefits of installing solar on your Brisbane home. These include:

• Significant cost savings on energy bills
• Utilise renewable power incentives
• Protect the environment and reduce greenhouse emissions
• Increase the value of your property
• Power new technologies such as electric vehicles

Traditional sources of energy such as coal and oil are highly damaging to the environment. They are also finite, meaning they won’t last forever. Now is the perfect time to make the switch to green energy and realise the main benefits for yourself and your family.

Choose Solarfix for your Solar Installation

Solar powered panels are a clean, infinite, and renewable means of powering your home. The above information highlights how solar panels absorb the sun’s rays and convert them into the electricity that we all use.

From Brisbane and the Gold Coast to Northern NSW, your premier solar installer choice is Solarfix. Contact us today for your solar installation quote. Or, if you have a problem with an existing solar panel system, our team is on hand to assist and you call our licenced solar repairers on 0497 524 407.