Solar panels transmit light

How do photovoltaic solar panels work?

Photovoltaic (PV) panels convert the Sun’s freely available light energy directly to electrical energy. How does it work? Solar panels are made up from two layers of silicon semiconductor, sandwiched between metal contacts. To harness as much light energy as possible, solar panels should face the Sun.

How do solar panels produce electricity?

This movement of electrons generates a direct electrical current (DC), which is the basis of electricity production. Solar panels are made up of multiple solar cells, which are the key units responsible for converting sunlight into electricity. Each solar cell captures sunlight and produces a small amount of electric current.

How is solar energy converted to electricity?

First, solar energy is converted to laser light on a geostationary satellite and transmitted to the ground for 36,000 km. The laser light is then converted to electric power by using photovoltaic devices *1 such as solar cells at a light-receiving facility on the ground.

How can solar energy be transmitted by fiber-optic techniques?

With the present day availability of fiber-optic techniques, solar energy can be transmitted by high-quality optical fibers of large core diameter and large numerical aperture.

How do photovoltaic cells produce electricity?

The photovoltaic cells are made from layers of silicon, which create an electric field when exposed to sunlight. This electric field pushes the energized electrons, forcing them to move. This movement of electrons generates a direct electrical current (DC), which is the basis of electricity production.

What is a space solar power system?

A space solar power system (SSPS) is a next-generation energy technology that converts solar energy into laser light or microwaves on a geostationary satellite orbiting the Earth, transmits it to the ground, and uses it as power.