**History of Solar Panels:**
– In 1839, Edmond Becquerel observed materials creating an electrical charge from light.
– In 1873, Willoughby Smith discovered light causing a charge in selenium.
– In 1881, Charles Fritts made the first commercial solar panel.
– In 1939, Russell Ohl designed the solar cell used in modern panels.
– In 1954, Bell Labs produced the first commercially viable silicon solar cell.
**Theory and Construction of Solar Panels:**
– Photovoltaic modules use solar cells to generate electricity from sunlight.
– Most modules use crystalline silicon cells or thin-film cells.
– Cells are connected in series and parallel to reach desired voltage and current.
– Modules have a power output dependent on light and connected load.
– Modules have a junction box for output and use metal frames for support.
**Solar Cell Connection Techniques:**
– Passivated emitter rear contact (PERC) adds a polymer film for light capture.
– Tunnel oxide passivated contact (TOPCon) adds an oxidation layer for more light capture.
– Interdigitated back contact (IBC) is used for solar cell connection.
**Arrays and Systems of PV Modules:**
– Multiple modules are installed to increase power output.
– A photovoltaic system includes modules, inverters, batteries, and other components.
– Equipment is selected to optimize output, storage, and reduce power loss.
– Systems convert DC to AC for use in homes and businesses.
– Solar tracking mechanisms can be used to enhance efficiency.
**Smart Solar Modules:**
– Smart modules have embedded power electronics for enhanced functionality.
– Features include panel-level maximum power point tracking and monitoring.
– Power electronics help maximize power harvest and compensate for shading effects.
– Some modules incorporate solar performance monitors for data and fault detection.
A solar panel is a device that converts sunlight into electricity by using photovoltaic (PV) cells. PV cells are made of materials that produce excited electrons when exposed to light. The electrons flow through a circuit and produce direct current (DC) electricity, which can be used to power various devices or be stored in batteries. Solar panels are also known as solar cell panels, solar electric panels, or PV modules.
Solar panels are usually arranged in groups called arrays or systems. A photovoltaic system consists of one or more solar panels, an inverter that converts DC electricity to alternating current (AC) electricity, and sometimes other components such as controllers, meters, and trackers. A photovoltaic system can be used to provide electricity for off-grid applications, such as remote homes or cabins, or to feed electricity into the grid and earn credits or payments from the utility company. This is called a grid-connected photovoltaic system.
Some advantages of solar panels are that they use a renewable and clean source of energy, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and lower electricity bills. Some disadvantages are that they depend on the availability and intensity of sunlight, require cleaning, and have high initial costs. Solar panels are widely used for residential, commercial, and industrial purposes, as well as for space and transportation applications.
Definition from ChatGPT:
Solar panel:
A solar panel is a device that converts sunlight into electricity through the use of photovoltaic cells. These cells capture the sunlight and convert it into direct current (DC) electricity, which can then be used to power various electrical devices or stored in batteries for later use. Solar panels are commonly used to generate renewable energy for residential, commercial, and industrial applications.