Photovoltaic Cell in Solar PanelsA photovoltaic cell, or solar cell, is made up of thin layers of silicon, each connected to an electrical circuit, covered by glass and sealed. An electric current is produced when the cell is exposed to light. The more light, the greater the current produced. One cell does not produce a significant amount of electricity so cells are grouped together into modules, or solar panels. These in turn are connected together to form a solar array depending on the amount of electricity to be generated.
A Bit of HistoryIn the 1800s, a scientist discovered the photovoltaic (PV) effect—the conversion of light into electricity. In 1883, another scientist invented the first solar cell using selenium—a very crude and inefficient model. In 1939, Russell Ohl, experimenting with silicon crystals, discovered how they could be used to generate electricity. The first photovoltaic cell was refined by researchers at Bell Telephone laboratories in 1954. Photovoltaic cell technology is now used worldwide to power calculators, watches, road signs, traffic lights, marine buoys, and in remote locations where there is no access to electricity. Even satellites and space shuttles use PV power. Solar Panels Turn Sunlight
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Greenscool's Guaymas School ProjectGreenscool is a non-profit organization that installs renewable energy systems in impoverished schools around the world. They also teach students about the renewable energy sources being installed so that the children and their teachers have a better understanding of power and it’s potential.
The Guaymas Project is the first in a series of renewable energy initiatives that Greenscool seeks to enact. |
Rebates and Tax Breaks
To encourage more people to purchase and install solar energy systems, the government in many countries offers incentives in reduced taxes and paying for part of the cost. In addition, power plants are required by law to buy back any extra electricity you produce. Germany and Japan have become world role models making the cost of solar energy competitive with fossil fuels.
In the United States, there are tax deductions and rebates on the price of solar panels offered by state and federal governments to encourage homeowners and businesses to convert to solar power:
2008 Residential Energy Efficient Property Credit
Database of State Incentinves for Renewables and Efficiency
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