Posted by Backcountry & Beyond on 28th Mar 2022
Solar Panels = Free Power!
Solar panels are becoming increasingly popular, with many investing in them due to their sustainability, allowance of off-grid power and, in the long run, money saving capability. If you’re thinking about making the purchase, you may be wondering how they work and how they can be utilized. Let’s get into it.
What is solar energy?
To start, let’s go over what solar energy is. Solar is Earth’s most abundant energy source, with about 173,000 terawatts of solar energy hitting the Earth at a time. This makes solar energy one of the best options for sustainable living.
How do they work?
Solar panels work when sunlight hits a panel and the light separates the atoms from electrons, creating electricity. This is accomplished by photovoltaic cells which make up solar panels. These cells work by establishing an electric field made up of positive and negative charges. To do this, phosphorus is added to a layer of silicone, which produces more extra electrons, to create a negative charge. Boron is added to another layer of that silicone which produces less electrons, creating a positive charge. When sunlight hits this electrical field, it knocks the electrons free, creating usable electricity.
What can they be used for?
Solar panels, with the aid of rechargeable portable charging devices, can power a variety of things including household appliances, phones, and other electronics. They can also be used for activities such as hiking and camping. These activities require you to go without access to power for long periods of time so having a solar panel and a charging device can help you stay connected.
Along with outdoor activities, solar panels can be used in case of emergency. If your house ever loses power, having a solar panel paired with a portable power device can be used to get your essential technology charged, power a portable fridge, or have access to light.
BioLite and GoalZero
BioLite and GoalZero offer a range of solar panels that paired with portable power devices make it so you never go without access to electricity. They offer everything from portable and mountable solar panels to rechargeable portable charging devices.
Sources
https://www.livescience.com/41995-how-do-solar-panels-work.html
https://us.sunpower.com/solar-array-definition
https://www.goalzero.com/shop/solar-chargers/nomad-50w-solar-panel/