Solar power is a type of renewable energy that is generated by capturing the energy from
sunlight and converting it into electricity. This process is accomplished using
solar panels, which are made up of photovoltaic cells that absorb the energy
from sunlight and convert it into direct current (DC) electricity.
The photovoltaic cells are made up of layers of silicon and other materials that create an
electric field when exposed to sunlight. As the sunlight hits the cells, the
energy is absorbed and knocks electrons free from the silicon atoms, creating a
flow of electricity. This direct current electricity is then converted into
alternating current (AC) electricity using an inverter, which is the type of
electricity used in homes and businesses.