Photovoltaics is the transformation of light into electrical energy

Why renewable energy? Climate change demonstrates: Not only the limited availability of oil, natural gas and coal require a shift in thinking, however also their environmental effects.

The beginning of a solution lies in increased reliance on emission-free renewable energy sources. Photovoltaics, the harnessing of electrical energy from sunlight, is assuming an increasingly important role.

Exploit natural qualities. Silicon, the element employed in solar cells, has four electrons orbiting the nucleus of the atom, known as valence electrons.

Photons that impact the silicon as sunlight impart energy to these valence electrons. The electron subsequently dissociates from the silicon atom, leaving behind a positively charged atom.

In order that all of the freed electrons flow in a common direction and can be harnessed as electrical power, the front and rear faces of the solar cell must have different polarity.

The silicon atoms on the front face are assisted by a small quantity of phosphorus atoms; these possess an additional valence electron. The meter records the amount of electricity produced and serves to calculate the balance with theelectric utility.

Boron atoms with only three valence electrons are added to the rear face of the cells. The imbalance created between the positive and negative poles enable the electrons to flow – producing electricity.