As one of the sunniest places in the world, more and more homeowners are switching to solar power in Australia. If you’ve contemplated switching to solar power, you’ve likely wondered, “How does solar power work?”.
We’re here to explain everything about how solar energy works so you can understand more about how this renewable, clean energy solution can benefit your home or business.
How Does Solar Power Work?
Did you know the sun is a nuclear reactor? It is constantly releasing energy in the form of photons. These photons travel to Earth and hit the solar cells in solar panels.
As the photons hit the solar cells, electrons are knocked loose. These electrons flow through an electrical circuit to generate energy, allowing solar panels to convert sunlight into electricity.
The more solar panels that are wired together, the more energy can be generated.
Any excess energy that is not used by the property owner can be used to charge a solar battery. This stored energy can be used for off-grid living or in the event of power outages.
Excess energy can also be exported to the electrical grid. You may receive a feed-in tariff for any excess energy sent back to the grid.
What Is a Solar Panel Made Of?
Photovoltaic (PV) solar panels consist of many solar cells. Solar cells come in various types of glass packaging and are made of silicon.
Solar cells have a negative and positive layer, allowing them to create an electric circuit. When photons reach a solar cell and knock electrons loose, these electrons can flow through the electric circuit to generate energy.
What Does a Solar Inverter Do?
Solar panels convert the sun’s rays into DC (direct current) electricity. However, homes and businesses in Australia often require 240-volt AC (alternating current) electricity.
The solar inverter converts the direct current electricity into alternating current electricity so that it can be used to power your home or business. Inverters also offer additional features such as system stats and ground fault protection.
How Do Solar Panels Generate Electricity?
When sunlight hits the photovoltaic cells in a solar panel, electrons become knocked loose and free to move about. The electrons that get knocked loose can then be captured. When these electrons flow in the same direction, it produces direct current electricity.
Wiring together panels create a solar array. The more solar panels a solar array contains, the more electricity can be generated.
Where Are Solar Systems Most Efficient?
To get the most efficiency out of a solar system, they should be well-positioned. This means optimal sun exposure, minimal obstruction from structures, trees, or power lines, and proper alignment. An experienced solar technician can determine the solar setup that will generate the most energy for your specific location and property.
Can Solar Panels Still Generate Electricity on a Cloudy Day?
Solar panels can still generate electricity on cloudy days, although not as much as on a sunny day. Shade also plays a key factor in how much energy solar panels generate. It is important to discuss your location and climate with an experienced solar technician to determine the optimal solar system for your home or business.
Want to Learn More About the Benefits of Solar Power Systems?
If you still have questions about how solar power works, please do not hesitate to reach out to us. Our team of expert solar technicians at Powertex Energy Solutions is always happy to answer any of your questions. Whether you are looking for product recommendations or want to have your property evaluated for a solar setup, we welcome you to contact our team.
We are proudly locally owned and operated and are WA’s full-service provider of premier solar power solutions. We’re here to help get your residence or business set up with a solar package designed for your specific property.
From your initial questions to the design phase to installation to maintenance, we take care of everything and keep you informed throughout the entire process. We ensure a smooth transition to solar power for homes and businesses alike.
Powertex offers affordable, customisable solar power solutions for homes and businesses throughout Perth and the South West of WA. With years of experience, we specialise in residential, off-grid, and commercial solar power systems. Please feel free to contact us for a free quote or with any questions.
