Solar energy is meant to accomplish two primary objectives: (1). To create electricity that can be used by consumers; and (2). To create this electricity with MINIMAL air, water, or environmental pollution. Solar meets these two requirements, as it embodies time-proven principles of sustainability and conservation.
The heart of generating solar electricity lies in the equipment used to capture photons – the very building blocks of sunlight.
This is accomplished by what are known as photovoltaic (PV) cells. PV cells are composed of two layers of semi-conductor material housed in a cell which are charged with either a positive or negative polarity – similar to a common household battery. Photons are absorbed by the semiconductor material and subsequently create a “power cycle.” This cycle begins with electrons being released from the negative layer. These electrons then travel to an external circuit and finally to the positive layer. This produces an electrical current that can then be harnessed for personal use.
PV manufacturers interconnect dozens of PV cells into what is known as a module. Modules work best when paired with other modules. For example, two modules wired in series double their voltage while keeping the same current levels, while two modules wired in parallel double their current while keeping the same voltage levels.
You need modules that are both wired in series and parallel, as this will give you the amount of electricity required to power your home or business. We accomplish this through what is known as a PV array. PV arrays are extremely flexible, and they can be designed to meet your electrical needs – no matter how large or small.
The following pictures will illustrate how electricity is produced using PV arrays.
