To many people, solar panels may seem magical. You install them on a roof or on the grounds of your property, and they supply your home with of electricity for day-to-day use. Understanding the materials used this magical tech is pretty fascinating in its own right. Let’s deconstruct a solar panel to see how it works.

Photovoltaic Cells

Photovoltaic or PV cells are the most important part of a solar panel. These critical components absorb photons from sunlight. PV cells work in conjunction with semiconductors built into the panel to transform those photons into electrical energy. PV cells form a central layer of the solar panel, and it’s important to make sure they aren’t blocked by debris atop the panel. The more direct sunlight photovoltaic cells harvest, the more efficient they are and the more they can save you on electric bills.

Toughened Glass

A layer of toughened glass covers the PV cells to form the outermost portion of the panel. This layer of glass is designed to protect photovoltaic cells from elements such as rain, sleet, snow and even hail. If cracks form in the glass portion of a panel, it’s time to seek professional repair.

Aluminum Frame

An aluminum frame holds all the above together. Without a frame, the panels would be prone to bending under the stress of high winds. The aluminum frame also works as a solid backside, so the panel can be installed on a flat surface. The stronger and more securely fixed a solar panel frame, the greater the panel’s resilience to extreme weather and other outside factors.

Backsheet

The backsheet is the outmost protective layer built into the bottom of every solar panel. This sheet is often white or transparent and is hardly noticeable. This backsheet helps make the panel more resistant to a number of environmental elements, including UV light, humidity and aridity, extreme temperatures, wind, dust, sand and various chemicals. Solar panel backsheets are also scratch resistant, providing panel durability during installation and any maintenance that might be performed.

EVA Film Layers

Finally, a layer of EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate) film provides the solar panel’s critical components with additional protection against extreme temperatures and humidity. EVA film also helps hold PV cells in place during manufacturing, preventing them from slippage, which could have a significant negative impact on overall panel performance and efficiency.

Installing Solar Panels

Modern solar panels are complex, but durable marvels of modern technology. They offer an efficient, money-saving way to supply your home with electricity. If you’re interested in joining the solar-power revolution at your house or just want more information, call GVEC Solar Services in Seguin, Texas at 855.898.8807. We offer a complete, turnkey solar solution, along with a 25-year warranty on parts and 10 years on installation. We’re your local solar energy experts and can help you get the most out of your solar panel investment by pairing it with a home battery storage solution, including Tesla Powerwall. Give us a call and let’s get started on your renewable energy future.

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