Everything You wanted To Know About Solar Panels
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Reference Education -> subcategory Environmental.
Everything You Need to Know About Solar Panels
Overview
Solar panels have become a popular modern alternative to traditional power sources like batteries. Although they were first conceptualized in 1839, their widespread and effective use has only recently come into prominence.
A Brief History of Solar Panels
The story of solar panels begins in 1839 when French physicist Antoine-Cesar Becquerel discovered the photovoltaic effect. During an experiment with an electrolytic cell made from metal electrodes in an electrolyte solution, he found that light exposure generated electricity. This laid the groundwork for future developments in solar energy.
Fast forward to 1883, Charles Fritts created the first solar cell using selenium coated with a thin layer of gold. From 1883 to 1941, many scientists and inventors explored solar energy applications. Notably, Clarence Kemp from Baltimore patented the first commercial solar-powered water heater. Albert Einstein also contributed to the field, earning a Nobel Prize for his work on the photoelectric effect.
By 1941, Russell Ohl of Bell Laboratories patented the first silicon solar cell, leading to the development of the first crystalline silicon solar panel in 1954. These panels initially achieved a 4% energy conversion efficiency. Over the years, global scientists improved this efficiency to 6%.
The first large-scale use of solar panels occurred in space satellites. By 1980, the USA had developed solar cells with 20% efficiency, and by 2000, they reached 24%. Recently, companies like Emcore Photovoltaics and Spectrolab have achieved 28% efficiency.
How Solar Panels Work
Solar panels are primarily made from pure silicon. This silicon is stripped of impurities, providing an ideal platform for electron transmission. In its natural state, a silicon atom can hold up to eight electrons but typically carries four, leaving room for more.
When two silicon atoms bond, they share electrons, creating a strong connection without a charge. To produce a piece of pure silicon, numerous atoms must combine over time. Once ready, this silicon is applied to solar panel plates. When combined with other elements, the silicon acquires a positive or negative charge.
The Future of Solar Energy
Solar panels are increasingly viewed as a solution for sustainable energy as traditional electricity sources become depleted. Many online retailers offer solar panels with power ranges from 10WP to 280WP, catering to varied energy needs.
Embracing solar energy not only helps reduce reliance on finite resources but also promotes environmental sustainability.
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