How Panels Are Constructed
The How Solar Power Works page describes how electricity is generated within one Solar Cell. Each cell is very thin and is approximately 10cm wide. The solar cells are wired together as a module and protected from the weather to create a panel, (also known as a module).
These cells sit on a tough backing plate, while the grid of electrical connections lies above and below the cells. Electrical connecting strips go from the bottom of one cell to the top of the next, connecting cells in series.
Over this is a non reflective layer (silicon is naturally reflective), to increase light absorption.
Finally on top is a layer of toughened glass, and the whole structure is usually secured in place by an aluminium frame, sealed against the weather.
On a polycrystalline panel are thin silver conducting strips printed to the upper surface of the cell. The main conducting strips, at the top and the bottom of the panel, connect to the printed strips so there is current flowing from the top of one cell to the bottom of the next.
