How does a photovoltaic panel work?
Solar energy is an essential solution for a sustainable future. But how exactly does a photovoltaic panel work? France is on the rise on the solar energy front, with an impressive production of 13.6 TWh in 2020 and an increase of 11.1% compared to the previous year
To maximize energy independence, photovoltaic panels, combined with new technologies on the market, such as virtual batteries, play a key role in sustainable energy management, making each installation more autonomous and efficient. Exploring the potential of this energy and understanding how it works is now essential.
In this article, we explain to you in concrete terms how a photovoltaic panel works!
Definition and Operation of a Photovoltaic Panel
Definition, Components and Operation of a Photovoltaic Cell
A photovoltaic solar panel is an assembly of Photovoltaic cells encapsulated between protective layers of glass, like our bifacial biverre modules, the most resistant on the market. At the heart of each cell is the silicon, a material semiconductor derived from sand that excels in converting sunlight into electricity. This characteristic is crucial for the operation of a photovoltaic cell. Silicon not only allows for the efficient capture of solar energy but also ensures that this energy is converted into a clean, renewable form of electricity, powering everything from homes to industries.
The characteristics of a photovoltaic panel:
- Efficiency: between 20 and 25% depending on cell technology -> Heterojunction, N type, P type, PERC
- Soft cells
- Rather sensitive to shading
- High temperature coefficient + -0.5%
The Different Types of Solar Panels
Solar panels come in several types, each adapted to specific needs:
- Bi-glass : By using glass on both sides, these panels offer better protection and extended lifespan, while maintaining optimal energy efficiency even under extreme weather conditions.
- Bi-facial : Thanks to their ability to capture light from both sides, these panels produce more energy, especially in environments where light is reflected from surfaces such as snow.
- Black Crystal full black : With their all-black aesthetic, these panels are not only stylish; they also absorb maximum sunlight, which optimizes their performance.
- Heterojunction : Heterojunction technology combines crystalline and amorphous silicon to capture more light, improving performance even on an overcast day.
At mylight150, we offer each of these solutions. Do not wait any longer for discover our products !
Operation of a Solar/Photovoltaic Panel
The Conversion of Solar Energy into Electricity
The operation of a photovoltaic panel involves the capture of photons by solar cells, which excite electrons and generate electrical flow. This process, discovered by Edmond Becquerel in 1839, is known as the photovoltaic effect. This fundamental phenomenon allows solar panels to efficiently convert solar energy into electricity.
The Electricity Generation Cycle
After the panels generate direct current (DC), it is converted into alternating current (AC) that can be used by households and businesses using an inverter. This component is vital in the operation of the solar panel because it allows the integration of solar energy into the electrical network.
Installation and Maintenance of Photovoltaic Solar Panels
Installation steps
The installation of solar panels requires theThe expertise of professionals to ensure optimal functioning of your solar panels. It starts with a careful assessment of the site, where experts determine the optimal orientation and angle of the panels to capture the maximum amount of sunlight. This phase is followed by the installation of sturdy supports and the secure attachment of the panels, whether on roofs or on ground structures. Do you have a project in mind? Do your simulation for free !
Maintenance and Lifespan
Although solar panels require little maintenance, regular cleaning is essential to maintain their maximum efficiency. The lifespan of these panels can be up to 30 years, but their performance may decrease slightly over time. Thus, to ensure better profitability of the installation, mylight150 offers panel technology that is sustainable and 30-year product and performance guarantees.
Advantages and limitations of the operation of photovoltaic solar panels
What are the benefits of solar?
Photovoltaic solar panels offer several significant advantages:
- Renewable and clean energy: They transform sunlight, an abundant and free resource, into electricity, thus helping to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
- Reduction in electricity bills: Once installed, solar panels can significantly reduce energy costs.
- Energy independence: Solar panels allow users to produce their own energy - especially with a virtual battery - reducing dependence on traditional suppliers and fluctuations in energy prices.
Limits and misconceptions about solar panels
However, solar panels also have some limitations:
- Relatively high initial cost: The initial investment for purchase and installation can be substantial, although this can be largely mitigated by various grants and tax credits. The addition of a virtual battery also improves the amortization of the investment and reduces electricity bills, making the system more profitable in the long run.
- Dependence on weather conditions: The production of solar panels is directly affected by weather conditions (high heat or gray weather). However, energy storage solutions can help regulate supply and new panel technologies, such as Heterojunction, allow better energy production even when it is hot or even on an overcast day.
- Need for adequate space for installation: A sufficient and well-oriented surface is essential to maximize the efficiency of solar panels. However, in dense urban areas or on buildings with small or unsuitable roofs, the space available for installation is naturally limited. This highlights the importance of choosing the best panels on the market, capable of maximizing energy production in any weather, to optimize the use of every square meter available.
Toward a Solar Future
Photovoltaic panels are essential for energy transition. Their ability to convert sunlight into electricity contributes significantly to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. Technological advances, such as cells at heterojunction And the bi-glass technology, maximize the capture of solar energy, extend the life of installations, and reduce production and installation costs.
Photovoltaics play a crucial role in the fight against climate change, supporting local communities and creating jobs in renewable energies. This technology not only contributes to the economy and environmental protection, but it is also recognized for its sustainability and recycling potential, helping to achieve the goal of net zero CO2 emissions by 2050.
In short, investing in solar energy is a strategic choice for an autonomous future. Could this type of installation seduce you? Do you still have questions about how photovoltaic solar panels work? Do not hesitate to Simulate your project or contact our teams To find out more!