1. SOLAR PANELS FOR ELECTRICAL NEEDS
Using the Power of the Sun

2. WHAT IS A PHOTOVOLTAIC (PV) CELL?
 Converts light from the sun into electricity
 Layers of material absorb photons of light and
release electrons
 Release of electrons creates an electrical current
 Made from semiconductor material
February 10, 2015
Carolyn Lambert
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3. DEVELOPMENT AND USE
 Edmund Bequerel noted the photoelectric
effect in 1839
 Albert Einstein described the nature of
photoelectric effect in 1905
 Space industry used solar technology to
power spacecraft in the 1960s
February 10, 2015
Carolyn Lambert
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4. HOW DOES PHOTOVOLTAIC TECHNOLOGY
WORK?
1. Light strikes the cell
2. Creates direct current
(DC)
3. Connected cells form
modules
4. Converted to
alternating current
(AC)
5. Connected to existing
electrical systems
February 10, 2015
Carolyn Lambert
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5. DISADVANTAGES OF SOLAR POWER
 Low capacity factor in cloudy areas
 Amount of sun in your area may be low
 Trees may shade solar panels
 Does not work at night
 Initial cost to install
panels may be high
February 10, 2015
Carolyn Lambert
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6. ADVANTAGES OF SOLAR POWER
 Renewable resource
 Reduce use of fossil fuels
 Stimulates economic growth in alternative
energy source
 Creates jobs in manufacturing and
installation
February 10, 2015
Carolyn Lambert
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