Many people wonder how these solar panels work and there is a simple answer and, of course, a long and complicated answer.  The simple answer is that basically solar panels convert sunlight into electricity.

The more complicated  answer to how solar panels work is this: solar radiation from the sun is collected in the solar panels and actively converts this energy into electricity.  Solar panels are made of several individual solar cells and these cells function almost like a large semiconductor and use a large-area p-n junction diode – which is an electric device that has two electrodes and is used to convert alternating current to direct current.  When solar cells are bared to sunlight, the p-n junction diode begins the process of converting the suns energy into usable electrical energy.  The energy from photons strikes the surface of the solar panel allowing electrons to be knocked around and out of their orbits. Then the electrons are released in the electric fields in the solar cells pulingl the free electrons in a directional current, which allows the metal contacts in the solar cell to generate electricity.  The more total electrical output the solar panel can produce is dependent on having more solar cells in a solar panel and a higher quality of solar cells.

There are many different applications for solar panels, solar powered stop signs and other solar powered traffic signs are becoming very popular in different parts of the country where people are at high risk for running stop signs or otherwise being distracted.  Solar powered traffic signs, including stop signs, use solar power panels to harness the sun’s energy in order to operate three or four flashing LED lights.  These flashing lights help to direct a driver’s attention to the traffic sign so they may heed the warning on the sign and do what it says in order to save their life and the lives of others.

Many state and local communities are using various solar panel applications in order to make electricity and save money on utility bills in addition to perhaps saving lives.