The Heart of Solar Power
Solar panels are everywhere—on roofs, chargers, even lanterns—but what are they? In Bharatkiran’s Solar Basics, we’re unpacking this key piece of solar power for rural India. Knowing how panels work helps you trust and use them in your village.
What’s Inside a Solar Panel?
A solar panel is a flat grid of photovoltaic (PV) cells—small squares made from silicon, a sandy material. Each cell has two layers: one loves sunlight, one pushes electrons. When sun hits, electrons move, making electricity—like wind spinning a chakki!
Panels are sealed with glass and metal frames—tough against weather. Small ones (5W) fit in your hand; big ones (300W) cover rooftops.
How Panels Make Power
Sunlight’s energy knocks electrons loose in the cells—this is DC (direct current) electricity. Wires in the panel collect it, sending it to a battery or device. A 10W panel might make 10 watts/hour in full sun—enough for a light or phone.
More sun, more power—but even cloudy days work, just slower. Learn the full process in How Solar Power Works.
Types of Panels
Two main types rule rural India:
- Monocrystalline: Black, efficient—great for small spaces, pricier but strong.
- Polycrystalline: Blue, cheaper—good for big setups, slightly less efficient.
Village hubs often use mono for portability—check examples in Top 5 Solar Hubs.
Why Panels Fit Villages
Panels need no grid—just sun, which India has plenty of! They’re low-maintenance—wipe dust off monthly—and last 20-25 years. Start with a small panel; grow as you need. Bust cost myths in Solar Power Myths Busted.