Solar panels create energy from sunlight using photovoltaic (PV) cells. PV cells work by creating a current between one positively charged and one negatively charged slice of silicon. When sunlight hits a solar panel, it knocks electrons loose on the negative slice to flow toward the positive end. These electrons create a current of electricity, which can be harnessed and directed to the grid.

Learn More: Solar Technology Is Taking Off. But How Does It Work?