Photovoltaic cells (PV cells) are the essence of any solar panel. Sunlight can be harvested in PV cells and the energy that has been captured can be converted into electricity, according to Science Clarified. PV cells are basically a silicone wafer with a boron solution on one side and a phosphorus solution on the other. Both solutions need to be engineered properly to ensure the proper functioning of the solar panel. To prevent panels from getting damaged, they are equipped with a layer of glass that is positioned on top of the PV cell.
Currently, there are three different kinds of solar panels, or PV cells according to Alpha Solar. Amorphous, monocrystalline and polycrystalline solar panels are the three types of solar panels on the market. Monocrystalline solar panels are the most efficient type of solar panels. They are constructed out of one single large crystal. Polycrystalline solar panels are constructed out of several crystals. They are the most popular types of solar panels.
The boron solution is equipped with atoms willing to give up an electron while the phosphorous solution features atoms that wish to absorb electrons. Boron cells gain energy in the presence of sunlight and give off electrons. A metal wire is employed to take in the extra electrons, and electricity is harvested and the electrons are attracted back to the phosphorus coatings. The constant boron and phosphorus electron exchange makes solar panels self-contained devices.
Because of the potential linked with this environmentally friendly energy source, local governments are giving consumers incentives to install solar panels around their homes. According to the sources at the Database of State Incentives for Renewable Energy, some residents can qualify for discount funding programs of up to $3,000 when they opt to install solar panels.
Solar panels can be quite expensive. According to Guide 4 Home, 120-watt solar panels can cost the consumer upward of $700. Used solar panels are available at a fraction of the cost associated with new solar panels. Used solar panels traditionally operate at around 90 percent of the efficiency of new panels.