Solar panels are designed and made up of six main components.
Frame: Usually made of aluminum, the frame provides structural rigidity and protects the unit from outside elements.
Glass: Protects the top of the panel and allows it to receive optimal sunlight.
EVA: Binds the components of the panel together and protects it from dirt, water, or anything else from damaging the cells.
Cells: Engines that convert sunlight into electricity.
Backsheet: The back part of the unit protects against water and dirt.
Junction/Connectors: Transfers the electricity produced by the unit.
At the very bottom of the panel are the junction and connector wires. These are responsible for transmitting the solar energy produced by the panel to a powered device or battery.
Above these wires are the solar cells, which are comprised of purified silicon. In order to increase the number of electrons within these silicon cells, solar panel manufacturers may add additional elements to a cell, such as phosphorus and boron to balance out the positive and negative charges for a better electric output.
There are several pieces of specially formulated glass between the cells and the surface of the solar panel. These prevent impurities, such as water or dirt, from reaching the cells. Glass is also highly reflective and excellent for conducting lots of UV rays directly into the solar cells.
The process of converting the sun’s rays into usable solar energy can seem like a complicated solution, but the overall concept is quite simple. The sun provides an unlimited and renewable energy source, that when combined with the right elements, can be used to power our world.