If we are serious about decreasing environmental pollution, then solar energy should be a part of the equation it isn’t a part of the problem, so it must be part of the solution. It’s recognized as an “alternative energy source”, as it isn’t widely used as a main source of power for very many people. It’s expensive to produce solar panels, and in today’s world, calculators and lawn decor are two of the most popular solar powered gadgets used by the mainstream. So, the burning question that could maybe help solve our planet’s current dilemma is, how do solar panels work? How does a panel harness the sun’s energy and turn it into electricity?

Solar panels are made from special materials that absorb the sun’s rays and turn them into electricity that can power all sorts of electronic devices. Devices that we use electricity for everyday without thinking twice about could be powered by solar panels.

In today’s world, we’re using a growing technology called photovoltaic (PV) electricity. Special materials are used to turn the sun’s energy into electricity and it can be used immediately or stored in DC batteries.

These materials have been recently developed and they release electrons when prompted by sunlight. Another name for a photovoltaic panel is a “direct energy conversion device”. All of these effects take place on an atomic level without any moving parts.

It used to be that only space age technology, like satellites and space stations, used photovoltaic panels. They were reliable for their continuous solar energy conversion, and once in outer space, the sun’s radiation is at least 50% stronger than it is on our planet.

A good candidate for solar energy is someone living a mile or more from an electrical grid since it’s a lot more costly to install power transmission cables than it is to install a solar panel kit. If this is you, then maybe it’s time to consider solar energy as your main power source.

Still, how do solar panels work? Understanding solar energy can help answer this question. Solar energy’s made up of two kinds of radiation, and the most desirable for solar panels is called “beam radiation”. This is what we feel when soaking up sun rays on the beach in June, when there’s not a cloud in the sky. Clear days are the best for collecting beam radiation, but the solar panel needs to be placed strategically to gather the most direct sun rays possible if you want to get the most from your solar panel.

The other kind of radiation is “diffuse radiation”. This radiation is strewn all over the place (as its name suggests). On a cloudy day, it’s the primary radiation source for a solar panel. It’s the same thing if you’re relaxing under a shade tree diffuse radiation is what you’re going to get. Unfortunately diffuse radiation isn’t very strong and relying on it alone for solar energy isn’t practical.

For solar panels to work efficiently, a sunny location is mandatory. Beam radiation is the most effective since it’s the strongest. Most of Western America qualifies as a good locale for beam radiation those states are good candidates for the use of solar energy, but northern climates and coastal states are usually quite cloud-laden and sadly, not worthy of 100% solar-reliance.

Solar panels can be built to meet special needs. 12 volt, 24 volt and 48 volt DC systems are the most popular. 12 volt solar panels can survive for over 20 years and are about 12-14% efficient.

One reason that solar power is still considered an “alternative energy source” is due to the high cost of production. The silicon semi-conductor materials are costly, but new materials are being experimented with and they’re geared towards lowering the price of producing solar panels. This would make solar power more accessible to the “average Joe”, and in turn helping save our atmosphere.

You’ll want to assess your weather patterns as well as your local utility rates before making a final decision as to whether or not to install a solar panel system at your residence, but the benefits to the environment truly outweigh the monetary aspect. The decision is much simpler if you intend to use solar merely as a backup plan. Energy independence is a common goal for all. It helps the environment in so many ways that simply can’t be ignored.

To find out more on how do solar panels work check out some more information here.