How Does Solar Power Work?

The Basic Principle of Producing Electricity from Sunlight

The basic principle of a solar power installation is the conversion of sunlight into electricity by solar cells. Most of them are mainly made of silicon. Occurring widely in nature, silicon is processed into solar cells with special techniques.

When the sun shines on the cells, direct current voltage builds up between the upper- and under-sides and power can flow. Normally traded solar cells reach up to 19% efficiency and are connected to form solar panels.

The electrical energy generated as direct current can be converted by an inverter (grid feeder) into alternating current and fed into the public power grid. Direct current can also be used directly or be stored in rechargeable batteries.