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The Importance Of Solar Silicon In Solar Cells |
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Written by Anna Jones
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Monday, 22 February 2010 08:05 |
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Solar silicon is necessary in order for photovoltaic or solar cells to work. This means that light energy can be harnessed and then converted in to electricity or other types of power. This type of energy production is highly desirable as it is renewable and environmentally friendly.
by AnnaJones
Solar silicon is necessary in order for photovoltaic or solar cells to work. This means that light energy can be harnessed and then converted in to electricity or other types of power. This type of energy production is highly desirable as it is renewable and environmentally friendly.
Most of the new homes and buildings being designed use some sort of solar energy and you can even purchase solar cells that look like shingles and side panels. Besides not having to worry about paying an electric bill you also will receive the savings in the form of a tax rebate. These rebates will differ depending on the state you reside.
High efficiency solar cells are those that convert the maximum amount of electricity from the light source. When using silicone the most efficient solar cells are monocrystalline. This type of cell provides and energy payback of 1 to 2 years so you will get your entire investment back quite quickly.
The solar silicon is where the energy conversion occurs and three different events can occur. The photon can reflect off the silicon, it can pass through the silicon or the silicon can absorb it. When the photon is absorbed then it excites the silicon in the semiconductor and the photon will move throughout the semiconductor where it is channelled and transformed into electricity.
The process you want for solar power is for the light to be absorbed. When light is absorbed electrons become excited and will move from an area of high concentration to low concentration which creates an energy gradient.
Traditionally it is the solar silicon that makes solar cells expensive though the cost of a solar cell as decreased dramatically. The main goal with new solar cells is to get the most electricity from the light without having the cost be very high. This is the area that most research is investigating as the highest energy conversion known to date is 35% efficiency.
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