Solar Classroom
If you want to learn more about how solar photovoltaic (PV) projects operate, this is a good place to start!
Solar PV is a technology used to convert sunlight to electricity. Solar panels are designed and will be used to achieve optimal energy production at the Mammoth Solar Project. Several solar cells are electrically connected and mounted in a support structure or frame that is called a photovoltaic (PV) module. Arrays of Photovoltaic modules at the site will produce direct-current (DC) electricity.
Inverters convert the direct current (DC) electricity from the solar panel into alternating current (AC) electricity, so it can be added to the utility grid system.
The electricity generated will be collected on-site using underground cables to the project substation. The project substation will aggregate the energy so it can be fed onto the grid and includes a transformer that converts – or “steps up” – the electricity to the same voltage level carried by the grid's transmission lines.
FROM SOURCE TO DEMAND
Solar PV cells capture sunlight and generate an electric current. This current is then sent through inverters and transformers to convert it from direct current (DC) into alternating current (AC) which makes it useable as "electricity" on the power grid. This electricity is distributed via power lines to where it is used.
PANEL COMPOSITION
Solar panels are composed of silicon solar cells confined between glass with a metal frame. The silicon, glass, and metal framing used to manufacture solar panels are non-toxic. The interior components of solar panels are entirely solid and made primarily from silicon and metal so there are no liquids or gases that risk polluting the environment.
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