How solar panels work

Site - https://howlongdosolarpanelslast.com

The main cell of solar panels is a semiconductor converter with a photovoltaic effect (photovoltaic converter), which, under the influence of solar radiation, generates a constant electric current.

The main cell of solar panels is a semiconductor converter with a photovoltaic effect (photovoltaic converter), which, under the influence of solar radiation, generates a constant electric current. In this case, the electromotive force (EMF) does not depend on the size of the cell, but decreases with an increase in the element temperature.

If a load is connected to the photoconverter, then, according to Ohm's law, an electric current will begin to flow through it. There is an optimum load resistance at which the greatest electrical power is released. For each photocell, its own Rop is selected, which ensures the maximum efficiency of the cell.

For practical purposes, the magnitude of the electric current and voltage from one photoconverter is not enough, therefore the elements are combined with each other using different types of connection:

·         series-connected photovoltaic cells allow generating a voltage equal to the sum of the voltages of each of them;

·         parallel connection increases the current in a similar way.

By combining parallel and series-commutated photoconverters, it is possible to obtain a solar panel with the required unified operating parameters.

To eliminate parasitic currents in unlit solar cells, they are shunted with semiconductor diodes. Without shunts, shaded areas would become consumers of the current generated in the neighborhood, which would lead to overheating and failure.

The final solar cell is assembled from such modules.

Additional electrical equipment

Actual output electrical parameters depend on the solar panel illumination and are highly variable. Such food is completely unsuitable for modern technology. To stabilize it, energy-intensive accumulators are connected to the solar complex.

The controller manages the charging and discharging process, preventing the batteries from losing more than 20% capacity or overcharging. Thanks to this, modern batteries remain functional for 10-12 years.

Most appliances require alternating current. The inverter is engaged in converting direct current into alternating current of a given frequency and voltage.

If a solar power plant is designed as a grid-connected power plant, then batteries are not needed. The generated electricity is converted into alternating power and immediately sent to the centralized network.