What is the photovoltaic effect?

The process where light (photons) knocks electrons loose from atoms in a semiconductor (silicon), creating an electrical current. Discovered in 1839 by Edmond Becquerel.

How efficient is the conversion?

Modern residential panels convert 20-22% of incoming sunlight into electricity. The remaining 78-80% becomes heat. The theoretical maximum for single-junction silicon: ~33%.

How Solar Panels Convert Energy

By Home Solar Guide Team|Updated 18 March 2026|educational

Independently written | Evidence-based | Sources cited

Solar energy conversion process — The photovoltaic effect: photons → electrons → current → electricity. Simple physics, powerful result.

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How do solar panels convert light to electricity?

Solar panels convert sunlight to electricity through the photovoltaic effect: (1) Photons (light particles) from sunlight hit silicon cells in the panel. (2) Photons transfer energy to electrons in the silicon, knocking them loose from their atoms. (3) The loose electrons flow through the circuit as an electrical current (DC). (4) An inverter converts DC to AC electricity (230V, 50Hz) for your home. This process has no moving parts, no fuel, no emissions, and works for 25+ years with minimal degradation.