24/01/2019
Solar panel consists of an array of photovoltaic cells, connected in series and parallel to deliver rated voltage and power. The PV cell is made from pure Silicon doped with an element like Boron to create an N-type and P-type layer.
An electric field is created at the junctions (boundaries) between the N-type layer (consisting of Silicon) and P-type layer (doped with Boron). This electric field creates a barrier that stops electrons from moving across the junction, effectively creating an open circuit.
However, when a PV cell is exposed to sunlight, energy-carrying particles in light called photons continuously strike the P-N junction area of the cell and are absorbed. When the energy absorbed from the photons are high enough to break the potential barrier created by the electric field, electrons begin to move across the junction creating the electrical current.
Solar panels are a major component of a solar energy system. They are connected to a solar inverter to deliver electrical energy to appliances in the home or office. When used with a regular inverter, the solar panel is connected to the inverter via a solar charge controller.
The solar charge controller connects the solar panel to the inverter battery . A Solar panel can last 10 to 30 years depending on type and/or terrain.
Solar Panel Features
A Solar panel is rated by its output voltage and power. However, the output voltage is just nominal as actual output voltage will vary depending on the intensity of sunlight. So, it is possible for a solar panel rated 12V to end-up generating 18V or even more. The maximum current is also usually listed.
Solar panels are available with different power outputs ranging from 10W to 320W. Usually you will have to connect a number of solar panels in series and parallel to deliver the required voltage for the inverter and power required to power your appliances.
Another feature to consider is the efficiency of the solar panel. Usually, this ranges from 7% to 20%. This figur
