Photovoltaic (PV) cells, also known as solar cells, are devices that convert sunlight into electricity. They use the photovoltaic effect to generate electric voltage and current. The United Kingdom is a country that has embraced solar energy, and PV cells are a key component of the solar energy system. In this article, we will discuss how PV cells work and their role in the UK’s energy mix.
How do Photovoltaic Cells work?
PV cells are made of semiconductor materials, which are responsible for converting sunlight into electricity. Most PV cells are made of silicon, which is a widely available and affordable material. The core of a PV cell is a thin, wafer-like layer of silicon, which is sandwiched between two layers of conductive material, usually metal. The top layer is called the p-type layer, while the bottom layer is called the n-type layer.
When sunlight strikes the PV cell, it knocks electrons off the atoms in the silicon. These electrons are then attracted to the n-type layer, which has an excess of electrons. The p-type layer has a deficiency of electrons, so it attracts the positively charged holes left behind by the electrons in the n-type layer. This creates an electric field across the PV cell, which causes the electrons to flow from the n-type layer to the p-type layer. This flow of electrons is what generates the electric current, which can be used to power electrical devices or stored in batteries.
PV cells are typically connected in series to form a PV module or panel. The current generated by each PV cell is added together to create a larger current, while the voltage remains the same. This allows PV panels to produce more power than individual cells.
The Role of Photovoltaic Cells in the UK’s Energy Mix
The UK has been investing in solar energy for several years now, and PV cells play a crucial role in the country’s energy mix. According to the UK government’s Energy Trends report, renewable energy sources, including solar, accounted for 47.9% of the country’s electricity generation in the first quarter of 2021. This was a significant increase from 40.4% in the same period in 2020.
PV cells are particularly useful in the UK because they can generate electricity even on cloudy days. While the UK is not known for its sunny weather, it still receives enough sunlight to make solar energy a viable option. PV cells can be installed on rooftops, in fields, or on other open spaces to generate electricity. Small-scale PV systems can be installed on residential homes or commercial buildings, while large-scale systems can be used to power entire communities.
The UK government has also incentivized the use of solar energy through its Feed-in Tariff (FIT) program. This program pays homeowners and businesses for the electricity they generate from renewable sources, including PV cells. The FIT program has helped to increase the adoption of solar energy in the UK, making it a more attractive option for those looking to reduce their carbon footprint and save money on energy bills.
Conclusion
Photovoltaic cells are a key component of the UK’s energy mix, providing a clean and renewable source of electricity. They work by converting sunlight into electric current through the photovoltaic effect. PV cells are made of semiconductor materials and can be connected in series to form PV panels. The UK has been investing in solar energy for several years, and PV cells have played a crucial role in this. With more incentives and investments in solar energy, the UK can continue to reduce its carbon footprint and move towards a cleaner and more sustainable energy future.
Leave a Reply