Solar power can be used in two different ways: as a heat source and as an electrical source. The process of converting the sun’s rays into electricity is called Photovoltaics (PV)
Photovoltaics is the direct conversion of light into electricity at the atomic level. Some materials exhibit a property known as the photoelectric effect that causes them to absorb photons of light and release electrons. When these free electrons are captured, an electric current results that can be used as electricity
Photovoltaics (PV) is a term used to describe the process of converting sunlight into electricity without any moving parts, noise, pollution or fuel. If you ever used a solar calculator, passed a solar powered road sign or placed money into a solar parking meter, you have seen PV solar in action. V conversion was discovered by French physicist, A. Becquerel in 1839. It is the only means known for converting light directly into electricity.
How the Photovoltaic Cells Work
The Solar Cell
PV cells are thin, flat wafers made of materials called semiconductors that are able to conduct, or carry, electricity.
Over 90% of the solar cells manufactured today are made from silicon, a semi-conductor, or a semi- metal, that has properties of both a metal and an insulator. One side of the cell is treated with a substance that carries a negative charge (e.g. phosphorous). The other side is treated with a substance that carries a positive charge (e.g. boron). Another layer, this one non-energy conducting, separates the two charges layers. A wire runs from the negatively charged side of the cell to the positively charged side, generating a direct current. With the use of an inverter, this current can be manipulated to alternating current and therefore useful to consumers.
How does this all fit in with the feed in tariff?
By synchronising the current generated by a PV system, with the current generated by the electricity supplier, this clean energy can either be used or sold back to the national grid. This makes the prospect of a solar PV system hugely attractive as it means that none of the energy generated is wasted, therefore providing relief for traditional methods.
The feed in tariff is set up to provide a long term financial incentive to those prepared to take the plunge and embrace the opportunity solar PV provides. As it encourages people to go green, and become more aware of the environmental costs of their behaviour, it strives to re design the way in which we see our homes, and how these homes are powered.
So with all things taken into consideration, solar PV is not only the way forward when looking fore alternatives on a local scale to the dominance of fossil fuelled power, but a financial investment which is unparalleled in its returns. An offer too good to be true! So don’t hesitate and call Cotswold Solar Power now for a free no obligation assessment, to see how our home-business could earn you cash for sunlight!
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