Solar energy is a renewable and sustainable form of power derived from the radiant energy of the sun. This energy is harnessed through various technologies, primarily through photovoltaic cells and solar thermal systems.
Simply put, home solar power systems work by converting the Sun's electromagnetic energy into either solar thermal energy or solar electricity. Solar heating systems create solar thermal energy using solar collectors. The heat generated by the solar collectors is used for solar water heating, solar space heating, or solar pool heating.
Most homeowners opting for solar solutions choose photovoltaic solar panels due to their scalability, versatility, and direct electricity generation. The number of solar panels required to power a home depends on several factors including the household’s energy consumption, the amount of sunlight received, and the panel's efficiency.
That said, the rate at which solar panels generate electricity varies depending on the amount of direct sunlight and the quality, size, number and location of panels in use. Even in winter, solar panel technology is still effective; at one point in February 2022, solar was providing more than 20% of the UK’s electricity.1
Solar panels convert sunlight into electricity through a process known as the photovoltaic effect where the energy from photons is absorbed by semiconductor materials, generating electron-hole pairs. The movement of these charge carriers creates an electric current that is then collected and utilized as electricity.
Here's a simplified explanation of the main components typically found in such a diagram : Solar panels (photovoltaic modules ) : Solar panels are the primary components that capture sunlight and convert it into electrical energy through the photovoltaic effect .These panels are made up of semiconductor materials like silicon.