Integrated Photovoltaic Solar Panels

Solar power roofing is one of the most exciting energy inventions of the past 100 years, providing a clean and renewable source of power for homes and businesses. Although many homeowners know about the benefits of solar panels, they aren’t always familiar with how they work.

Solar roofing operates on a process known as integrated photovoltaics, in which photovoltaic devices (solar panels) convert sunlight into electricity. The process occurs over several stages:

1. The sun releases photons, which strike the solar panel’s semiconductor material.

2. The material causes photons to ionize, or release their outer electrons.

3. The structure of the semiconductor guides the free electrons in a single direction, causing an electric current.

Because some of the sun’s rays – such as ultraviolet and infrared – are too weak or create the wrong type of energy to generate electricity, photovoltaics do not present owners with 100 percent efficiency. However, they remain one of the most efficient energy sources available in the world today.

Bay Area Solar Company

Since its original harnessing in 1954 by Bell Labs, solar power has been one of the most compelling discoveries of its time. To learn more about how to put it to work in your home or business, contact Century Roof and Solar, expert solar roofing installers committed to making this resource available to you.