Broken down, the two root words “photo” and “voltaic” mean “light” and “electricity.” So it’s no wonder that photovoltaic (PV) cells are essentially solar-electric energy systems, devices built to convert sunlight into an electrical current. This article will summarize the way photovoltaic cells accomplish their magic and will outline their general stages of development.
A PV cell consists of a diode, which conducts electric currents in a single direction using its semiconductor material. Semiconductors have the ability to transfer heat or electricity between metal and an insulator. This capacity increases along with increases in temperature.
When sunlight hits the solar panel of a PV cell, a portion of that light is absorbed and transferred to the semiconductor. Once the semiconductor receives this solar heat, atoms release electrons, which flow through the semiconductor to create an electrical charge. This electrical charge, or current, is drawn to metal plates located on the top and bottom of the PV cell. From there, it enters an inverter, where it can be transferred to a home’s utility panel for useable energy.
Silicon is still the most commonly found semiconductor in an average PV cell. Silicon has a crystalline structure. Each silicon atom consists of three layers filled with electrons that increase in number toward the center of the atom. As electrons in the outer shell are released, the inner electrons move to take their place, resulting in a locked structure. This is why most silicon solar cells are either N-type or P-type silicon cells. Through a doping process, N-type cells include phosporous, enabling more electrons to escape the outer shell of the atomic structure to become electricity. P-type silicon cells are doped with boron, which allows electrons to leave the atomic structure by creating positively charged holes in their place.
The most common semiconductor in PV cells is still the silicon wafer. As technology advances, PV semiconductors are becoming more flexible and diverse. Advancements from the silicon wafer include foil-based solar cells, polymer solar cells, nanocrystal solar cells, dye-sensitized solar cells, and most recently, multispectrum solar cells.
There are several different factors that go into figuring the cost of a solar PV system. There are also up front costs, rebates and rate of payback to be considered. Typically, solar PV systems cost around $10 per watt installe… Read more »
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Phill Ricord January 13, 2009 To Whom It May Concern: As a home owner who has lived off the grid for well over 20 years I am pleased to Recommend Daniel Tittmann to anyone seeking assistance in designing, purchacing, installing or repairing alternative energy systems and/or components. In 2007 he was part of a team who upgraded our home’s existing solar and hydro-electric system to meet our ever expanding need for alternative power. Daniel Worked diligently and methodically to ensure that our system was professionally installed and left us with a sense of confidence that he would be there for us when we needed service or advice. Later when we decided to install solar electric water pumping system tie into our existing photovoltaic system, Daniel did it all. He designed, purchased and installed a low wattage pump that allowed us t break free from our dependence from our gas driven pump. He showed up on time, as scheduled and went out of his way to be certain that we were satisfied. When, through our own negligence, the pump failed due to inadequate filtration, Daniel promptly serviced the pump and returned it to service. Daniel and his company Greenwired Solar Solutions, is our “go to guy” when it comes to alternative energy solutions. His rates are reasonable, he is trustworthy and punctual. If he is unsure, he seeks help. He is easy to work with and his earned my respect and my business. Please feel free to contact me for further info if you wish at 707 442 6620 Phil Record President Wildberries Marketplace Since this letter was written I have installed and serviced a second electric pump, a solar system on a guest house/ studio as well as fixing a hydroelectric system.
California Construction center did a really great job for me. They pay a lot attention to customer satisfaction. The guys running the show do a great job planning and organizing, and the crew does a wonderful job executing. All and all, it was a very positive experience and I would happily recommend these guys to others.