how solar pv works

Solar voltaic panels convert the sun's light in to energy, here's how:

Solar photovoltaic modules are made up of a number of solar cells which are most commonly made from silicon crystal wafers. When light strikes the silicon crystals the photons of light excite the crystals on a molecular level, causing neutrons to be released, creating a tiny voltage across the crystals (the photovoltaic affect). Because of the way the panels are built, these tiny voltages are captured using wires across the solar cells, and essentially connected together in series to increase the voltage across each wafer or cell as seen on a module. Each cell is then usually wired together in series to create a greater voltage for the modules as a whole. This voltage usually ranges from 25 - 45 Volts. A number of solar photovoltaic modules are then wired together creating a string of modules – which are then in turn wired collectively into an inverter, converting the direct current of the module into an alternating current which can be used in a grid tied property.