How Solar Panels Work
Solar panels produce no noise or pollution – just clean electricity directly from the sun.
Also known as solar modules, solar panels are made up of many solar cells. Each solar cell is made of semiconductor material, silicon, that conducts electricity. Silicon is expensive and responsible for much of the cost of solar panels. Solar panels account for around 60% of the overall cost of a home solar power system, although types of solar panels and costs can vary.
How a solar panel creates electricity
Near the top surface of the solar cell, there are two layers of semiconductor material, positive and negative. These layers form a small electric field. When sunlight falls on the surface of the solar cell, the electric field drives electrons from negative to positive, which forms a flow of electric current. This current travels through wires as DC electricity to the inverter, which then converts it into AC electricity.
Solar cells on average convert between 15% to 25% of direct sunlight into energy
Sunrun will install solar panels on your roof or on the ground, depending on your roof and availability of space. Residential solar panels are covered in anti-reflective glass and sealed for protection. Since there aren't any moving parts and only the glass and aluminum frames are exposed, residential solar panels can last for decades. Sunrun takes complete care of your home solar power systems to ensure optimal production and delivery on our money back guarantee.
Sunrun Advantage
Get home solar for as low as $0. Simply pay monthly for your solar with Sunrun.