A photovoltaic solar panel

What is a photovoltaic cell?

A photovoltaic cell is the most critical part of a solar panel that allows it to convert sunlight into electricity. The two main types of solar cells are monocrystalline and polycrystalline. The "photovoltaic effect" refers to the conversion of solar energy to electrical energy.

What is a photovoltaic solar panel?

Photovoltaic solar panels are used to generate electrical energy through the photovoltaic effect. However, solar thermal installations also use another type of solar panel called solar collectors, which heat water for domestic use. There are also so-called hybrid solar panels on the market.

How do photovoltaic cells work?

Simply put, photovoltaic cells allow solar panels to convert sunlight into electricity. You've probably seen solar panels on rooftops all around your neighborhood, but do you know how they work to generate electricity?

What is the photovoltaic effect?

This conversion is called the photovoltaic effect. We'll explain the science of silicon solar cells, which comprise most solar panels. A photovoltaic cell is the most critical part of a solar panel that allows it to convert sunlight into electricity. The two main types of solar cells are monocrystalline and polycrystalline.

What is a solar thermal panel?

For solar thermal panels, see solar thermal collector and solar thermal energy. 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.

How many photovoltaic cells are in a solar panel?

There are many photovoltaic cells within a single solar module, and the current created by all of the cells together adds up to enough electricity to help power your home. A standard panel used in a rooftop residential array will have 60 cells linked together.