Solar panels, also known as photovoltaics (PV), capture energy from the sun and convert it into electricity that you can use in your home or on the go.
With the capacity of solar energy reaching an annual growth rate of 25% in the last five years, solar has become the fastest growing renewable power source.
With a rise in demand for renewable energy sources, more homeowners are looking to invest in solar panels. Naturally, there are many questions about how solar panels work and what advantages they offer. So, let’s break it down.
How is Electricity from Solar Energy Produced?
Solar panels are usually built with layers of semiconducting materials such as silicon. Each layer has electronic properties that absorb sunlight and help convert it into electricity.
The silicon is installed in a metal panel frame with a glass casing that offers durability and protection to the photovoltaic cells. When photons (particles of light) hit the silicon, their energy frees negatively charged electrons and leaves behind positively charged “holes”, creating electron–hole pairs.
When light interacts with the panels, the PV cells are energized and a direct current (DC) is created. Using an inverter, the DC electricity is then converted into alternating current (AC)—the type of electrical current required by regular wall sockets.
As well as electricity, heat can also be generated. On hot days, cell temperature rises and PV efficiency drops. To combat this, modules use materials and layouts (including backsheet and ventilation gaps) that help limit overheating and protect performance.
What are the Advantages of Solar Power?
Despite solar power receiving criticism for being expensive or inefficient, the benefits are compelling. From helping the environment to supporting the broader economy, the list of advantages is a long one.
Renewable Energy
One of the largest benefits is that solar power is a truly renewable energy source. Solar energy can be harnessed all over the world and causes no greenhouse‑gas emissions after installation.
Turning to pollution‑free solutions is necessary for the health of our planet, and solar power is a quick and easy way to reduce the use of fossil fuels in our daily lives.
Versatile Panels
Solar panels can be installed in a wide range of places, from domestic settings such as buildings and homes, to larger‑scale facilities like farms. They benefit these different landscapes in many ways.
In the countryside, solar farms are helping to support local biodiversity by providing an undisturbed habitat for animals such as bees, butterflies, and nesting birds.
In cities, rooftop panels can help to combat fuel poverty. This creates a positive impact on domestic life, finances and the well‑being of the people who live there.
No Noise Pollution
Solar panel installations are non‑intrusive and therefore can be installed with minimal disturbance.
The absence of moving parts means that they are essentially silent and will cause no loud disruptions.
Safety
Solar panels are very safe. As they are mostly made of silicon, there is no risk of photovoltaic cells leaking or emitting toxins or fumes.
In 2020, 5,2% of the EU’s total electricity production came from solar energy. Solar has grown at one of the highest rates in the EU, with costs decreasing by 82% over the last 10 years, showing a steady move away from fossil fuels.
Reducing Energy Costs
By using the renewable electricity that your solar panels produce, you can harvest enough to power your entire house.
Depending on the size of your solar system and your usage, you could save substantial amounts on energy bills.
There is also the opportunity to sell surplus energy back to the grid if you generate more than you use.
Do Solar Panels Work on Cloudy Days?
The short answer is yes. Solar panels only require daylight to harness the sun’s energy, so output varies with the amount of direct sunlight.
Solar panels respond to light in the visible spectrum; if there is enough light to see, there is enough light to generate electricity.
How Are We Developing Effective Solar Systems?
Here at Bluetti, we believe we are doing solar power right. Our solar products are built with monocrystalline solar cells that can convert up to 23,4% of sunlight into solar energy, meaning you can efficiently charge your solar generators even in bad weather.
All of our generators are built to last and are designed to resist scratches and water ingress, helping your solar system stay efficient for as long as possible.
If you’re looking for solar power on the go, we offer foldable and portable solar products that can be easily transported—perfect for a camping trip!
Check out our range of solar panels and generators here.
