How Do Photovoltaic Cells Work? – A Lesson In Solar Energy Cultivation

how do photovoltaic cells work

Many of us have a basic understanding of how solar energy works, but do you know why solar panels can generate electricity in the first place? Well, to put it simply, it’s thanks to solar cells, otherwise known as photovoltaic (PV) cells. But, how do photovoltaic cells work?

A lot of science goes into this seemingly simple process, however, it’s important to understand the basic concepts and functions of PV cells before installing solar panels. You’ll have a much greater appreciation for solar energy if you can grasp the amazing science behind the power.

So, how do photovoltaic cells work? Here’s a breakdown of how they function:

Photovoltaic (PV) Cells 

Also known as a solar cell, a photovoltaic (PV) cell is a form of electricity generated by particles of lights known as photons. Discovered by French physicist Edmund Becquerel in 1839, PV cells weren’t truly utilized until the 1960s with the implementation of satellite technology. PV cells are the backbone of solar panels that we see today and continue to be the driving force behind sustainable energy production. 

How Do Photovoltaic Cells Work?

The photovoltaic process begins with a thin, semiconductor wafer that creates an electric field. One side is positive, while the other is negative. From here, light energy (UV rays) hits the solar cell and knocks atoms loose from the semiconductor. If electric conductors are attached to the negative and positive sides, this forms an electrical current. Thus, electricity is created from captured electrons via the electric current; this is how electricity is created from the cells within the solar panels.

PV Cell Efficiency

Efficiency refers to the ratio of electrical energy produced by the cell, depending on how much sunlight it absorbs. Efficiency is measured by combining cells into modules before being assembled into arrays. The final panels are tested in front of a solar simulator that impersonates optimal sunlight conditions. Solar panels have come a long way since they first appeared on the consumer market over 30 years ago. Solar panel efficiency and solar energy system output is far more efficient today than it ever was before. 

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Solar Power

Semiconducting material paired with multiple PV cells compacted together is what forms the solar panels we see on residential homes and commercial buildings. Solar panels wouldn’t exist without PV cells, and it goes without saying that solar companies in Texas wouldn’t either. At this point in time, solar panels are humanity’s best solution to harness the sun’s energy, and it’s all thanks to PV cells. 

Sunshine Renewable Solutions

If you’ve been interested in installing solar panels of your own, Texas is one of the leaders in sustainable energy, and Texas solar is a market that will only continue to grow. If you’re a business owner, make sure you hire an experienced, licensed commercial solar company for installation. Sunshine Renewable Solutions prides itself on being one of the best solar companies in Houston.

To learn more about solar panels and solar energy systems, please get in touch with us today!

Texas Plastic

Sunshine Renewable Solutions to Help Formosa Plastics of Point Comfort, Texas, Achieve Sustainability Goals

Formosa Plastics is a major producer of polyethylene, polypropylene, and polyvinyl chloride resins, which are widely used in various industries worldwide. Recognizing its role in environmental stewardship, Formosa Plastics sought to collaborate with a reputable sustainability consultant who can provide solutions to reduce its impact on the environment.

Sunshine Renewable Solutions is a leading sustainability consulting firm that specializes in renewable energy and environmental sustainability. The company has a team of experts who help clients identify opportunities to reduce energy consumption, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and implement sustainable practices through solar power.

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Sunshine Renewable Solutions proudly partners with a leading Texas-based plastic manufacturer, embarking on a groundbreaking initiative to fortify its commitment to sustainability.

By integrating solar energy solutions, we're revolutionizing their environmental impact. Our collaborative efforts aim to construct a robust solar infrastructure, harnessing renewable energy to power their operations efficiently.

Together, we're spearheading a transformative shift towards renewable practices, demonstrating how solar power can drive industrial progress while prioritizing environmental responsibility. Sunshine Renewable Solutions is honored to work hand-in-hand with this industry leader, fostering a brighter, greener future through the strategic implementation of solar energy solutions.

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Creating The Foundation

As the foundational step in our partnership, the construction of concrete piers for the solar panel structure marks a pivotal milestone in our solar energy initiative. These concrete piers serve as the bedrock of support for the entire solar infrastructure, providing stability and durability essential for the efficient functioning of the solar array.

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Precision And Accuracy Are Paramount

Our engineering team meticulously plans and designs the layout of the piers, ensuring they are strategically positioned to uphold the solar panel array's weight and withstand environmental factors such as wind and inclement weather. We adhere to industry standards and best practices to create a robust foundation that guarantees the longevity and resilience of the solar installation.

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A Solid Foundation

Environmental considerations are taken into account throughout the construction process, ensuring minimal disruption to the surrounding ecosystem. Our commitment to sustainability extends beyond energy production to encompass responsible construction practices.

By establishing these concrete piers foundations, we are ready to start Phase 2, erecting the metal support bars. Enabling the subsequent installation of solar panels will power the plastic manufacturer's operations while significantly reducing their carbon footprint.

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Lorem Ipsum is simply dummy text of the printing and typesetting industry.

Lorem Ipsum is simply dummy text of the printing and typesetting industry. Lorem Ipsum has been the industry's standard dummy text ever since the 1500s, when an unknown printer took a galley of type and scrambled it to make a type specimen book. It has survived not only five centuries, but also the leap into electronic typesetting, remaining essentially unchanged.

Lorem Ipsum is simply dummy text of the printing and typesetting industry. Lorem Ipsum has been the industry's standard dummy text ever since the 1500s, when an unknown printer took a galley of type and scrambled it to make a type specimen book. It has survived not only five centuries, but also the leap into electronic typesetting, remaining essentially unchanged.

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Lorem Ipsum is simply dummy text of the printing and typesetting industry.

Lorem Ipsum is simply dummy text of the printing and typesetting industry. Lorem Ipsum has been the industry's standard dummy text ever since the 1500s, when an unknown printer took a galley of type and scrambled it to make a type specimen book. It has survived not only five centuries, but also the leap into electronic typesetting, remaining essentially unchanged.

Lorem Ipsum is simply dummy text of the printing and typesetting industry. Lorem Ipsum has been the industry's standard dummy text ever since the 1500s, when an unknown printer took a galley of type and scrambled it to make a type specimen book. It has survived not only five centuries, but also the leap into electronic typesetting, remaining essentially unchanged.

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Lorem Ipsum is simply dummy text of the printing and typesetting industry.

Lorem Ipsum is simply dummy text of the printing and typesetting industry. Lorem Ipsum has been the industry's standard dummy text ever since the 1500s, when an unknown printer took a galley of type and scrambled it to make a type specimen book. It has survived not only five centuries, but also the leap into electronic typesetting, remaining essentially unchanged.

Lorem Ipsum is simply dummy text of the printing and typesetting industry. Lorem Ipsum has been the industry's standard dummy text ever since the 1500s, when an unknown printer took a galley of type and scrambled it to make a type specimen book. It has survived not only five centuries, but also the leap into electronic typesetting, remaining essentially unchanged.

Slide
Follow The Build

Lorem Ipsum is simply dummy text of the printing and typesetting industry.

Lorem Ipsum is simply dummy text of the printing and typesetting industry. Lorem Ipsum has been the industry's standard dummy text ever since the 1500s, when an unknown printer took a galley of type and scrambled it to make a type specimen book. It has survived not only five centuries, but also the leap into electronic typesetting, remaining essentially unchanged.

Lorem Ipsum is simply dummy text of the printing and typesetting industry. Lorem Ipsum has been the industry's standard dummy text ever since the 1500s, when an unknown printer took a galley of type and scrambled it to make a type specimen book. It has survived not only five centuries, but also the leap into electronic typesetting, remaining essentially unchanged.

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