Solar Photovoltaic Power Generation Promotional Video

How does photovoltaic (PV) technology work?

Photovoltaic (PV) materials and devices convert sunlight into electrical energy. What is photovoltaic (PV) technology and how does it work? PV materials and devices convert sunlight into electrical energy. A single PV device is known as a cell. An individual PV cell is usually small, typically producing about 1 or 2 watts of power.

How does a PV device convert sunlight into electricity?

PV materials and devices convert sunlight into electrical energy. A single PV device is known as a cell. An individual PV cell is usually small, typically producing about 1 or 2 watts of power. These cells are made of different semiconductor materials and are often less than the thickness of four human hairs.

How do PV cells work?

In order to withstand the outdoors for many years, cells are sandwiched between protective materials in a combination of glass and/or plastics. To boost the power output of PV cells, they are connected together in chains to form larger units known as modules or panels. Modules can be used individually, or several can be connected to form arrays.

How does a solar cell work?

Each solar cell is made of multiple layers. The top semiconductor is a negative layer, which means the material contains extra electrons. The sun’s energy “shakes” these electrons loose, and these electrons become naturally attracted to the bottom semiconductor layer, which is positively charged.

What is a video cut of a solar array?

Video cuts to animation of panel rotating around sun, then fades to footage of satellite flying over Earth. Narrator: In the next decade, solar arrays found their first significant application on spacecraft. Video cuts to television with President Jimmy Carter on screen.