Photovoltaic (PV) Panels

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What is a Solar Panel?

Solar-Electric Panels AKA: solar-electric modules, photovoltaic (PV) panels

PV panels are a solar-electric system’s defining component, where sunlight is used to make direct current (DC) electricity. Behind a PV panel’s shimmering facade, wafers of semiconductor material work their magic, using light (photons) to generate electricity—what’s known as the photovoltaic effect. Other components in your system enable the electricity from your solar-electric panels to safely power your electric loads like lights, computers, and refrigerators.

PV panels are assigned a rating in watts based on the maximum power they can produce under ideal sun and temperature conditions. You can use the rated output to help determine how many panels you’ll need to meet your electrical needs.

Multiple modules combined together are called an array. Different wattage panels can be combined provided they are of similar crystalline construction and efficiency. They should all have blocking diodes to prevent reverse current flow and the maximum power voltage (Vmp) rating between them cannot differ by more than 1% or within a few hundredths of a volt. It's not recommended to mix panels of different wattage when using an MPPT controller.

Although rigid panels are the most common form of solar electricity collector, PV technology also has been integrated into roofing shingles and tiles, and even peel-and-stick laminates (for metal standing-seam roofs).

PV modules are very durable and long lasting—most carry 25-year warranties. They can withstand severe weather, including extreme heat, cold, and hail stones.