Photovoltaic (PV) panels convert
sunlight into electricity in the form of direct current. Recent advances in
solar technology mean it is available to use in the leisure market at an
affordable price and can provide usable power.

As the energy produced by the PV
array often does not correspond to the temporary energy demand of the consumer
it may be necessary to store the energy in batteries for use when required.

Below is a diagram of the most
common type cell, the Crystalline Silicon solar cell. It is composed of two
differing silicon layers. The top layer is negatively charged and the bottom
layer is positively charged. The sunlight causes electrons to be set free and
move between the two layers generating a small electric charge. If the circuit
is closed then electricity can flow.