How to Produce Electricity Using the Sun

In this video, you will learn how to produce electricity using the sun.

The sun makes it possible to produce electricity through solar energy.

This is one of the primary forms of renewable energy and is particularly useful for rural zones that are isolated and not connected to an electrical grid.

To produce electricity from the sun, you will need a solar panel and a voltmeter.

This explanation will take place in two steps, which we will describe.

STEP 1: THE PHOTOELECTRIC REACTION

STEP 1: THE PHOTOELECTRIC REACTION

Solar panels are composed of silicon cells.

This is the photoelectric effect.

This produces electric current.

When sunlight particles, called photons, enter into contact with silicon, a reaction occurs in the silicon atom.

Put the solar panel in the sun, in a cleared area.

The voltmeter will indicate increasing voltage.

Cover the solar panel.

The voltmeter will indicate decreasing voltage.

STEP 2: OPTIMIZE THE PANELS’ PERFORMANCE

STEP 2: OPTIMIZE THE PANELS’ PERFORMANCE

Vary the angle of the solar panel in relation to the sun.

Place the panel perpendicular to the sun’s rays.

The voltmeter will indicate increasing voltage.

Vary the angle of the panel.

The voltmeter will indicate decreasing voltage.

The ideal position for the solar panel is perpendicular to the sun’s rays.

Place the panel at an angle to the ground defined by a norm. This norm varies depending on the country: in France it is 30 degrees, in Benin, 15 degrees.

Tip: The panel is always oriented towards the equator, south for the Northern hemisphere, and north for the Southern hemisphere.

Tip: The panel is always oriented towards the equator, south for the Northern hemisphere, and north for the Southern hemisphere.

You now know how to produce electricity with the sun.