What is a photovoltaic (PV) cell?

A photovoltaic (PV) cell, commonly called a solar cell, is a nonmechanical device that converts sunlight directly into electricity. Some PV cells can convert artificial light into electricity. Sunlight is composed of photons, or particles of solar energy.

What are polycrystalline solar panels?

Polycrystalline (poly) solar panels are created by melting smaller silicon fragments and blending them to create solar cells. The blended nature of poly cells makes them slightly less efficient than mono cells, which means mono panels allow you to fit more solar in a smaller space.

How do solar photovoltaic cells work?

Solar photovoltaic cells are grouped in panels, and panels can be grouped into arrays of different sizes to power water pumps, power individual homes, or provide utility-scale electricity generation. Source: National Renewable Energy Laboratory (copyrighted)

What is a PV panel?

PV cells are electrically connected in a packaged, weather-tight PV panel (sometimes called a module). PV panels vary in size and in the amount of electricity they can produce. Electricity-generating capacity for PV panels increases with the number of cells in the panel or in the surface area of the panel.

Are solar panels reflective?

The solar industry has developed high-tech, anti-reflective coatings and ultra-transparent glass to improve panel efficiency and, in fact, solar panels are less reflective than many common building features, such as windows. When it’s not sunny, how will we have enough clean energy to power the country?

Are solar panels a good alternative to fossil fuels?

Unlike fossil fuels, solar panels don’t emit pollutants when producing power. An analysis by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) found that solar adoption results in fewer chronic bronchitis, respiratory and cardiovascular problems, and fewer lost workdays related to health issues. Solar is increasingly used for backup power.