All you need to know about how Pv solar panels work

The technology behind photovoltaic (Pv) solar cells is very sophisticated, but the end result is very simple: converting direct and indirect sunlight into electricity.

At the heart of the Pv solar cell is a construction made up of one of the world's most abundant and naturally occurring elements – silicon.

All materials in the production process and end of use are fully recyclable, making it one of the most environmentally friendly options available.

Panel manufacturers including Sharp have been developing the technology of processing silicon into semi conductors, called cells, which generate electricity since the 1950s.

About cells, frames and arrays

Each individual cell creates a low voltage in reaction to sunlight, and hundreds of cells are connected into modules that make a single solar panel frame.

These modules are then connected in series to your solar array which generates the optimal voltage.

Converting the array's output into usable energy

The electricity generated by your solar panel array is sent to an inverter.

We only use the highest quality inverters, which are some of the most reliable and efficient in their field.

The inverter converts the Direct Current (DC) into Alternating Current (AV) – which is the required format to power your household appliances or for exporting back to your chosen energy supplier.

See The history of Solar PV