Solar Panels in Dublin & Columbus Ohio

Solar panels, also known as photovoltaic (PV) panels, are at the heart of harnessing solar energy. These innovative devices convert sunlight into usable electricity through a process called the photovoltaic effect. Understanding how solar panels work is essential to grasp the underlying science of solar energy.

Solar panels consist of individual solar cells that are interconnected within a module. Each solar cell is typically made of silicon, a semiconductor material that has unique properties enabling the conversion of sunlight into electricity.

When sunlight strikes the surface of a solar cell, it excites the electrons within the silicon atoms, causing them to break free from their atoms. This creates an electric current. The solar cells are specifically designed to create an electric field that forces these free electrons to flow in a specific direction, generating direct current (DC) electricity.

To make the electricity generated by solar panels compatible with household appliances and the electrical grid, an inverter is used. The inverter converts the DC electricity produced by the solar panels into alternating current (AC) electricity, which is the standard form of electricity used in homes.

The AC electricity generated by solar panels can be directly used to power your home’s electrical needs. Any excess electricity produced but not immediately used can be sent back to the grid through a process known as net metering. Net metering allows homeowners to earn credits for the surplus electricity they contribute, potentially offsetting their energy costs during times when their solar system isn’t producing enough electricity.

By leveraging the photovoltaic effect, solar panels provide a sustainable and reliable source of electricity that can power your home while reducing your carbon footprint. The technology continues to evolve, with advancements in efficiency and durability making solar panels more accessible and efficient than ever before. We are proud to offer our solar panels to the Dublin and Columbus Ohio areas.