Solar panels are the latest solution to the energy crisis in Pakistan and an efficient way to escape the loop of constantly rising electricity bills. If you are planning to get solar panels for your home or a commercial property, it is also important to understand the main components of solar panels.
In this article, you will find a detailed guide on the different components of a solar panel and their functions and contribution to the overall solar system.
1- Solar Cells
The most crucial component of solar panels is the solar cells. Solar cells consist of multiple layers of semiconductors that create electric charge when exposed to sunlight. Busbars in the solar panels collect these charges and transport them to the connectors, which start the process of sunlight conversion into electricity.
There are different types of solar cells, such as monocrystalline silicon cells and polycrystalline silicon cells. Monocrystalline silicon cells are manufactured using a single-piece silicon crystal; on the other hand, the production of polycrystalline silicon cells requires countless silicon crystals. There are also N-type and P-type solar cells with different properties.
- P-type solar cells:
P-type solar cells add boron to silicon, which creates positive charges known as holes. When exposed to electricity, these charges carry electric current. This type of solar cell is mostly used in multicrystalline and some monocrystalline silicon solar panels.
- N-type solar cells:
The basic difference between P-type and N-type solar cells is the addition of phosphorus to N-type cells. This additional layer in N-type cells increases the number of electrons, which ultimately increases the electricity conduction. N-type solar cells are more stable and efficient and therefore used in advanced technologies like TOPCon.
2- Solar Glass
Solar glass is a sort of covering that maximizes sunlight absorption and also shields solar panels from harsh weather and debris. It protects the solar cells from harmful external elements. The solar panels with premium-quality glass ensure maximum efficiency and also last longer. For instance, Doart solar panels have highly transparent glass that allows maximum sunlight capture while also protecting the delicate solar cells.
3- Back-Sheet
Back-sheet acts as a barrier for a solar panel as it protects it from heat, moisture, and debris. It also plays a crucial role in ensuring the efficiency and longevity of solar panels. If a solar panel doesn’t have a back sheet, the panel can easily get permanently damaged, and the entire system will become useless.
4- Frame
The frame is one of the main components of solar panels. It acts like the backbone of a solar panel system as it provides structural support to the solar cells. Different materials are used in the frame of the solar panels, and in Doart solar panels, an aluminum frame is used that offers robust protection.
5- Junction Box (J-Box)
A junction box is located at the back side of a solar panel. Its function is to provide electrical connections and also has a host of safety features. Junction boxes are made weatherproof to make sure they last longer and continue supporting your panels.
6- Busbars
Busbars are one of the most crucial components of solar panels, as they help enhance the efficiency of a panel. These are copper-made metal strips that run across the front and back of cells in the panels. The higher the number of busbars, the more efficiency the panel provides. In Doart 580W and 550W panels, there are 16 busbars, which ensure maximum efficiency.
How do these main components of solar panels work together?
Solar panels work through these key components. The working of solar panels starts with solar cells, which capture the sunlight and convert it into direct current (DC) electricity. Each cell is connected to others through thin strips called busbars that help transfer the electricity. The entire assembly is enclosed in a protective frame, which provides stability and durability.
The back sheet protects the cells and prevents moisture from causing damage. After this whole process, the panels are also connected to an inverter, which is used to convert the DC electricity into alternating current (AC), making it usable for powering various devices in homes or businesses.
Final Words!
These are some of the main components of solar panels that make the process of sunlight conversion to electricity possible. Now that you have understood each component and what its function is, you can make an informed decision while buying solar panels. It is recommended to choose a panel proving higher efficiency and with a robust material so it can last longer and save you on repair and replacement costs.