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In this beginner’s guide to solar panels, we cover everything you need to know about how they work, how they are made, what they look like and what you need to know before purchasing. From their benefits as an environmentally-friendly energy source to the different types of panel production, we’ve got it covered in this exclusive beginner’s guide. Solar panels are a renewable energy technology used to convert sunlight into electricity. They are composed of either photovoltaic (PV) panels or crystalline silicon PV (c-Si), that absorb light and convert it into electricity. They generally include inverters, batteries and mounting kits. Solar panels are becoming more and more popular due to their low cost and the clean energy they produce. They provide power without the need for fossil fuels. This article gives an informative overview on solar panels that you don't want to miss! What Are Solar Panels Made Of? The overall construction of a solar panel, while quite unique in how they produce energy, is made from solar cells, that are then connected in a series to make a solar module. A solar module by itself can be considered a solar panel for limited solar power needs. In fact, a solar module, PV module and solar electric panel are synonymous terms used by many in the solar power industry to represent a solar panel. A solar panel can also be wired and mounted together in yet another series to create a larger solar array or complete solar system that you typically see in homes and businesses. Solar Cells Solar cells are used in solar panels because they absorb sunlight and have a unique effect of turning that light energy into electricity. Solar cell technology has improved over the decades with three generations of changes. The materials used in these changing technologies are: First Generation - Traditional Wafer-Based Solar CellsPolysiliconMonocrystalline siliconSecond Generation - Thin Film Solar CellsAmorphous siliconCadmium telluride photovoltaics (CdTe)Copper indium gallium selenide solar cells (CIGS)Third Generation - Photovoltaics Thin Film TechnologyCopper zinc tin sulfide solar cell (CZTS)Dye-sensitized solar cellOrganic solar cellPerovskite solar cellQuantum dot solar cell Solar Cell Simply stated, you need solar cells to create a solar panel. The type of technology you choose is dependent on your specific requirements, budget, and personal use (hiking vs. home vs. business). Solar Modules A solar module when connected through a series of wires and brackets will provide a lot more power for your needs. The majority of modules in use today are from the first- and second-generation technologies (wafer-base and thin-film). The typical components used to make modules are: Concentrators (lenses, mirrors)Connectors (outdoor: mc4, indoor: PV glass, film, windows, automotive: USB adapter)Inverters/Micro-inverters (DC-to-DC, maximum power voltage)Module Connections (wiring for output voltage, diodes for maximum output)Mounting Systems (roof based for homes, frames, mounts, wiring connections)Solar Trackers (follows the sun for maximum energy) How are Solar Panels made? Solar panels manufacturing process takes place in three stages: The first stage is material collection, which includes earth excavation and sorting for raw materials. This is followed by fabrication of panels from alloys such as aluminum and silicon to make them light enough to transport without being too fragile or heavy.The third stage is assembly that involves mounting cells on frames made out of wood or metal before installing led lighting systems onto the assembled product's surface area. The manufacturing process begins by grinding raw silicon ingots into round, flat pieces. They are then heated in a vacuum furnace where they are melted at high temperature and pressure causes oxide layers to form on one side and iron rich layers on the other side. Using a electron microscope or x-ray machine will allow you to see parallel lines on its surface. The new crystals possess the properties necessary for solar cells and transparency levels can be adjusted to account for a smoother surface. One or two layers of a thin silicon coat are added emitting different colors when illuminated (photovoltaic semiconductors). Each piece allows electricity to pass through it in only one direction from top to bottom. These processes continue until thousands of individual crystalline "solar modules" are formed. In the final assembly stages, robots fitted with grippers handle a large numbers of wafers, without shattering them. Conveyor belts move stacks onto hardening stands where workers place each module's back face against a low ridge allowing the silicon to cool down and solidify. Where are Solar Panels made? Solar panels are made all over the world. The primary leader in solar panel production and distribution come from China. The United States falls into second place. The clip below designates the size of the manufacturing market (the larger the dot, the more manufacturers exist in this country).