What are solar panels made of? A solar panel may look like a single block, but it is actually composed of several different materials that turn sunlight into usable energy.
If you’ve been wondering what your solar panels are made from and how they put together, you are in the right place. This article will explore the different materials used in solar panel construction and what purpose they all serve.
The Materials That Make Up Solar Panels
Solar panels are made from a variety of materials and each one is essential to the functionality. The most common materials that solar panels are made of include:
- Silicon
- Aluminum
- Sheet glass
- 12V wire
- Busline
- Cadmium telluride
1. Silicon
The heart of a photovoltaic system is the solar cell, which converts sunlight into electrical energy that can be used to power your home or business. Solar cells are constructed from semiconductor materials, most notably silicon.
Light strikes the cell, causing an electric field to form across the silicon layers. The more powerful the sunlight, the more electricity is generated.
2. Aluminum
The frame is the structure that holds the solar cell and other module components in place. It is typically made of aluminum, which is both strong and non-corrosive. The frame must be strong enough to withstand strong winds and heavy snow loads.
3. Sheet Glass
The glass sheet protects the solar cells from the elements by covering them. It also lets sunlight into the cells. The glass is usually tempered to reduce the risk of injury, which means it is designed to shatter into small pieces if broken.
4. Standard 12V Wire
Standard 12V wire is an electrical conductor used to connect various parts of an electrical system. It carries less current than bus wire and is typically made of copper or aluminum. Solar panel systems rely heavily on standard 12V wire.
5. Bus Line
A bus wire is a type of electrical conductor used to connect various components of an electrical system. It is typically made of copper or aluminum and can carry more current than standard electrical wire. Solar panel systems make extensive use of bus wire.
6. Cadmium Telluride
Cadmium telluride (CdTe) solar cells are created by depositing a thin layer of cadmium telluride on a glass substrate. A transparent conducting oxide (TCO) layer is applied to the cadmium telluride. CdTe solar cells are used in various commercial solar products, such as rooftop solar panels and thermal power plants.
Quality Solar Panels For Your Home
Solar Optimum is your local leader in all solar-related products, offering unrivaled quality and value. We only use premiere, tier-1 equipment and technology in clean energy and Our commitment to exceeding expectations has earned us the highest ranked platinum, elite, and premium certifications from all manufacturers
To learn more about solar panels for your home, contact one of our Energy Coordinators today or download your free Solar Panel Buyer’s Guide below.
