How Solar Power Works

  1. When exposed to sunlight material in a solar panel absorbs the sun's photons
  2. Photons dislodge the electrons from atoms in the photovoltaic (PV) cell
  3. The voltage difference between positive and negative electrodes creates an electric current
  4. Copper wire inside the panel carries the current out
  5. Direct current (DC) flows from the panel to an inverter that turns it to alternating current (AC)
  6. Electrical current then passes through electrical safety breaker boxes before going to the grid
  7. Electrical items (lights, computers, etc.) use the electricity
  8. Most solar facility energy goes to the electric grid for use by consumers