How do solar panels charge batteries?

Solar panels don't work alone to charge one or more batteries, but the process itself isn't complicated because it only requires the battery, a charge controller, and an inverter. A 12-volt battery can take between five to eight hours to charge.

Charge Controller: Whether or not to include this component typically depends on the size of your solar system. A unit containing a maximum power point tracking (MPPT) circuit maximizes transferred energy. Another plus is automatically disconnecting the solar panel from the battery when fully charged.

Battery: The size and type of the battery you choose will depend on your energy needs. A 12-volt, deep cycle battery is designed to withstand repeated charge/recharge cycles without sustaining any damage to internal plates or electrolytes. The average automotive battery cannot withstand being repeatedly drained and replenished without quickly failing.

Inverter: The inverter is an inexpensive, yet vital component that transforms the electricity stored in the battery so it's usable in your home. Always check the current rating on the inverter, along with the number of electrical sockets it can power.


How is solar energy collected?

Photovoltaic solar panels convert sunlight into energy via a semiconductor material such as silicon. As sunlight strikes each cell on the panel, a portion is absorbed by the semiconductor material. This process releases electrons and allows them to flow, resulting in an electrical current.

Standard panels can convert sunlight into electricity with a top efficiency of around 15 percent. More expensive panels can do the same with about 20 percent efficiency.