Home photovoltaic solar panel effect diagram

What is the photovoltaic effect?

The photovoltaic effect is a process that generates voltage or electric current in a photovoltaic cell when it is exposed to sunlight. It is this effect that makes solar panels useful, as it is how the cells within the panel convert sunlight to electrical energy. The photovoltaic effect was first discovered in 1839 by Edmond Becquerel.

Where does the photovoltaic effect occur?

The photovoltaic effect occurs in solar cells. These solar cells are composed of two different types of semiconductors - a p-type and an n-type - that are joined together to create a p-n junction. To read the background on what these semiconductors are and what the junction is, click here.

How do solar panels work?

Silicon is used to create solar cells, which are the components in solar panels that convert sunlight into electricity. These solar cells are usually arranged in a grid-like pattern on the surface of the panel and are protected by a glass casing for durability and longevity. Solar panels operate on a principle known as the photovoltaic (PV) effect.

How do photovoltaic panels work?

This effect is mainly activated by sunlight, although it can be triggered by natural or artificial light sources. However, in practice, the vast majority of photovoltaic panels use exclusively sunlight as an energy source.

How does a home PV system work?

Most home PV systems have a storage component where the current generated is used to charge connected solar batteries. This is done using a charger that receives current from the panels and charges the batteries, much like you would charge the battery in your phone or laptop.

Why are solar panels useful?

It is this effect that makes solar panels useful, as it is how the cells within the panel convert sunlight to electrical energy. The photovoltaic effect was first discovered in 1839 by Edmond Becquerel. When doing experiments involving wet cells, he noted that the voltage of the cell increased when its silver plates were exposed to the sunlight.