How Do Solar Panels Actually Work?

Switching to solar power is no longer just about helping the planet – it’s also about making a smart business decision. With energy bills rising and sustainability becoming a top priority, many businesses are turning to solar to cut costs and reduce their carbon footprint. But how do solar panels actually work, and what makes them such an effective energy solution?

How Do Solar Panels Turn Sunlight into Electricity?

When sunlight hits the silicon material, tiny particles of light (photons) knock electrons loose. This process is called the photovoltaic effect. Once freed, the electrons flow through the cell and into connected wires, creating an electric current.

At this stage, the electricity is direct current (DC), which can’t be used directly in your building. That’s where an inverter comes in, it converts DC into alternating current (AC), the form of electricity that powers your lights, computers, machinery, and all the other equipment your business needs to run.

What Makes Up a Solar Panel?

At first glance, a solar panel looks like a smooth sheet of glass, but it’s made up of many individual parts working together. The key components are photovoltaic (PV) cells, which are the small square-like units you can see arranged in neat rows across the panel. These cells are usually made from silicon, a material known for its ability to absorb sunlight and release electrons.

The PV cells are protected by glass on the front, with a backing sheet and a frame to keep everything sturdy. Wiring connects the cells so they can send electricity into your system, and most panels are also coated with a special anti-reflective layer to capture as much sunlight as possible.

Installing Solar Panels

Installing solar panels is a straightforward process, usually handled by a team of trained specialists. The first step is a site survey to check your roof’s suitability, orientation, and how much sunlight it receives. Once everything is approved, the panels are mounted securely, wired into your building’s electrical system, and connected to an inverter. The installation process typically takes just a few days, meaning minimal disruption to your business operations.

One of the best parts about getting started is that there are many funding options available. In fact, in most cases you don’t even need to pay anything upfront. Businesses can spread the investment over time or choose flexible payment plans, which means you begin saving on energy costs immediately without the worry of a large capital expense.

Once installed, solar panels provide a range of benefits: they reduce your reliance on the grid, protect you from rising energy prices, cut your carbon footprint, and can even increase the value of your property. For many businesses, the savings on bills and income from selling excess energy soon outweigh the initial costs, making solar a smart long-term decision.

Solar Storage and SEG (Smart Export Guarantee)

With solar, you often generate more electricity than your business needs. Instead of letting that go to waste, you can store it in batteries for use later or sell it back to the grid through the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG). Your energy supplier pays you for every unit of electricity you export, turning your panels into an extra income stream. That extra money can be reinvested straight back into your business. Solar doesn’t just reduce your bills, it gives you the flexibility to save, store, or sell energy in a way that works best for your business.

Take the Next Step with RES

Solar power is a proven, reliable, and cost-effective way to generate clean energy for your business. From the smooth installation process with no upfront costs to the financial incentives like the Smart Export Guarantee, the case for switching has never been stronger. If you’re ready to lower energy costs, reduce your carbon footprint, and take optimise your future energy supply, we can help you get started. Get in touch with us today to explore your options and take the first step towards a brighter, more sustainable future.