Solar PV modules, also known as solar panels, convert the energy in sunlight to electrical energy.

This occurs due to the properties of photovoltaic materials, which experience an internal flow of electrons in response to light. Electrons in the structure of these materials – typically a silicon crystal structure – absorb the energy of light particles (photons) hitting their surface, energising the movement of particles through the material.

PV modules are constructed of photovoltaic materials ‘doped’ with positive and negative ions so that the internal electron movement is channelled through the material and into an electric circuit, via the metal contacts on the surface of the module.