Photovoltaic (PV) technology is how solar energy is transformed into electricity. The sun can produce electricity through solar cells, also known as photovoltaic ﴾PV﴿. Rays of sunlight hit the solar panel and are absorbed by semiconducting materials, such as silicone. Electrons are knocked loose from their atoms, which allow them to flow through the material to produce electricity. The process where light ﴾photo﴿ is converted into electricity ﴾voltage﴿ is called the photovoltaic ﴾PV﴿ effect.

An array of solar panels can convert solar energy into DC ﴾direct current﴿ electricity. When more solar energy is generated than what you're using it can be stored in a battery. The battery will continue to supply your home with electricity at night time. Solar Energy is better for the environment than traditional forms of energy. Energy production is very likely a major contributor to climate change. In the U.S., our energy related activities account for three quarters of our human generated greenhouse gas emissions, mostly in the form of carbon dioxide emissions from burning fossil fuels. More than half the energy related emissions come from large stationary sources such as power plants. Using solar energy is both renewable and cleaner for the environment.

Additional Resources

http://livinggreen.ifas.ufl.edu/energy/renewable_energy.html#solar