Solar Panels and How Solar Energy in Generated

A solar panel is a collection of individual cells, called solar cells, that are designed to extract electricity from light. A single solar cell does not provide a lot of electricity so they are combined into a solar panel that will generate enough electricity to power household items and potentially eliminate your monthly utility bill.

The name of the process of converting light to electricity is called Photovoltaic or PV process. The PV or Solar Cell is a wafer of semi-conductor material. Although there are several types of solar panel production using different materials, the most common is silicon.

Silicon by itself is a poor electrical conductor but it reacts to light and as a base it works very well. To create the proper conductivity and to allow current be generated the silicon is treated with tiny amounts of phosphorous or arsenic a process called doping. The combination of materials allows the release of electrons and a negative current to pass. This type of silicon is call N-Type.

A seperate type of doped silicon is used in solar panels called P-Type. This silicon is doped with gallium or boron and "holes are created in the crystalline structure. The free electrons within the silicon have nowhere to bond. These holes can also conduct an electrical current but the lack of an electron, due to the hole creates a positive charge. This type of silicon is called P-Type.

Solar Panel Composition.

A solar panel is composed of solar cells or wafers which is composed of layers of each the P-Type and N-Type. In the wafer configuration the free electrons in the N-side migrate towards to free holes of the P side. A barrier is created between the 2 side which then only allows the electrons to pass from the P side to the N side.

Expose the solar cell to light and the energy from each photon light particle hitting the silicon will liberate an electron in the N-type and a corresponding hole in the P-Type. Apply an external pathway connecting both sides of the silicon wafer and electrons will flow back to their original P side to unite with the holes sent there by the electric field. A constant electrical field provides voltage. The flow of electrons causes a current. Combine the two and you get power.

Solar panel electricity is generated in the form of Direct Current (DC) like your car battery. The type of electricity provided by the utility company is Alternating Current (AC). An inverter is used with the solar panels to convert the energy from DC to the AC current thus supplementing and even replacing the electricity you pay the utility company for.

Efficiency of a solar panel.

One factor is the solar insolation, a measure of how much solar radiation a given solar panel or surface receives. The greater the insolation, the more solar energy can be converted to electricity by the solar panel. Additional factors that can affect the output of solar panels are weather conditions, shade caused by obstructions to direct sunlight, and the angle and position at which the solar panel is installed. Solar panels function the best when placed in direct sunlight, away from obstructions that might cast shade, and in areas with high regional solar insolation ratings.

Solar panel efficiency can be optimized by using dynamic mounts that follow the position of the sun in the sky and rotate the solar panel to get the maximum amount of direct exposure during the day as possible. For more information on solar panels, solar systems and how efficiency through the use of mounts, see our section on solar panel mounts and accessories.

Is Solar power right, now?

Today, having solar power installed in your home is the best investment for your money. In time you will not only receive your investment back but a solar system increases your homes value and sale price. California in making it easier to install solar power on your home now with "The California Energy Commission's New Solar Homes Partnership (NSHP )." This partnership is a comprehensive statewide solar energy program, known as the California Solar Initiative. The NSHP provides financial incentives and other support to home builders, encouraging the construction of new, energy efficient solar powered homes that save homeowners money on their electric bills and protect the environment. There are many incentives and even tax credits that can reduce the cost of your solar system by up to 50%. To read more about California New Solar Home Partnership Click here...

No Money Down- The solar system lease option may be the best way to get you into a new solar system and provide you with low cost electricity. We respresent several solar manufacturers which provide easy to qualify for financing options. Solar systems allow you to generate electricity today and for generations. Contact us for details on how you can own a solar system today and stop paying the utility companies.

Our Promise to You

Solar by Milholland Electric Promise:

No High Pressure Sales No Part of Our Work is Sub-Contracted 10 Year Full Warranty, 25 Year Limited Warranty Custom Design and Installation