How Solar Panel Works: Step-by-Step Guide (2025)

Solar panels are devices that convert sunlight into electricity using the photovoltaic effect. 

In Bangladesh, where power outages and load shedding are common, understanding how solar panels work can help homeowners and businesses save energy and money. 

That’s why this comprehensive guide explains how solar panels work, step by step, and how they function in Bangladesh’s conditions. 

What is a Solar Panel?

A solar panel, also called a photovoltaic (PV) panel, is made of multiple solar cells that capture sunlight and generate electricity. 

Solar panels are widely used in homes, offices, and industries in Bangladesh as part of solar power systems for clean and renewable energy.

Types of Solar Panels:

• Monocrystalline solar panels
• Polycrystalline solar panels
• Thin-film solar panels

Each type has different efficiency and cost, suitable for various needs.

The Science Behind Solar Panels

Solar panels work based on the photovoltaic effect. 

When sunlight hits a solar cell, it excites electrons, creating direct current (DC) electricity. This DC electricity is then converted into alternating current (AC) using a solar inverter, which can power your home or office.

Step-by-Step Process: How Solar Panels Work

See how sunlight turns into usable electricity step by step, helping you choose the right solar system and maximize savings in Bangladesh.

1. Sunlight Absorption

The process of generating electricity starts when sunlight hits the solar panels installed on your rooftop or ground. 

Each solar panel is made up of many photovoltaic (PV) cells, usually made of silicon, which is a semiconductor material. When sunlight, composed of photons, strikes these cells, it excites the electrons inside the silicon, creating a flow of direct current (DC) electricity.

• Insight: Not all sunlight is absorbed; factors such as panel type (monocrystalline, polycrystalline, or thin-film), angle of installation, and local weather conditions in Bangladesh can impact efficiency.
• Tip: Proper cleaning and positioning of panels ensure maximum sunlight absorption, especially during the intense summer months or during frequent cloudy days in Dhaka or Chittagong.

2. Electricity Conversion

The DC electricity produced by solar panels cannot be used directly by most household appliances because they require alternating current (AC). 

This is where a solar inverter comes into play. The DC electricity from the solar panels flows into the inverter, which converts it into AC electricity suitable for powering lights, fans, computers, and other devices.

• Insight: Modern solar inverters are highly efficient and can also optimize energy output by tracking sunlight intensity throughout the day.
• Extra Note: In areas with fluctuating voltage or frequent load shedding, inverters also protect your devices by stabilizing the electricity supply.

3. Power Supply

Once converted to AC electricity, power is immediately available for use in your home, office, or business. 

This allows you to run appliances directly from solar energy, reducing dependency on the national grid and saving on electricity bills.

Insight: Solar power systems can operate alongside your main electricity supply. During the daytime, solar panels often generate enough electricity to power your home entirely without relying on the grid.

Context: With frequent power cuts, a solar system ensures the uninterrupted operation of essential appliances like refrigerators, fans, computers, and pumps.

4. Energy Storage (Optional)

Not all generated solar electricity is used immediately. Excess energy can be stored in solar batteries, such as lead-acid, tubular, or lithium batteries, for later use. 

This stored energy is beneficial during the night, rainy days, or long cloudy periods when sunlight is insufficient.

• Insight: Choosing the right battery type and capacity is crucial. For example, lithium batteries provide longer life and higher efficiency, while tubular batteries are more affordable and robust.
• Practical Tip: Properly sized battery banks can keep your home or office running uninterrupted for several hours during load shedding.

5. Net Metering (Optional in Bangladesh)

Suppose your solar system generates more electricity than you consume. In that case, the surplus can be fed back into the national grid under net metering, where the Bangladesh Power Development Board (BPDB) credits your electricity account. 

This reduces your monthly electricity bills and encourages efficient use of renewable energy.

• Insight: Net metering allows solar users to sell excess power back to the grid, making solar energy both a sustainable and cost-effective solution.
• Tip: Check with your local utility provider for net metering policies, as they vary by region and installation capacity.

Key Components of a Solar Panel System

These are the heart of your solar system. Made with photovoltaic cells, they absorb sunlight and generate the first stage of electricity in DC form.

• Solar Panels: Capture sunlight and produce DC electricity.
• Solar Inverter: Converts DC to AC electricity.
• Solar Battery: Stores energy for use during low sunlight.
• Solar Charge Controller: Protects batteries and manages charging.
• Mounting Structure: Holds panels securely in place.
• Cabling & Connectors: Transfers electricity safely.

Benefits of Understanding How Solar Panels Work

By using sunlight, you reduce your monthly grid electricity costs. 

• Reduce electricity bills in Bangladesh.
• Ensure reliable backup during power cuts.
• Make informed decisions when buying solar panels.
• Improve the efficiency and lifespan of your solar system.

How Solar Panels Work in Bangladesh Conditions

Bangladesh experiences high levels of sunlight throughout the year, making solar energy a viable choice. 

However, factors like humidity, dust, and seasonal rainfall can affect solar panel efficiency. 

Regular cleaning, proper installation, and choosing high-quality panels from suppliers like MK Technology ensure optimal performance.

Why Buy Solar Panels from MK Technology?

For reliable solar panels and complete solar solutions that cut costs, ensure backup during power cuts, and deliver long-term performance, M.K Technology is your trusted partner in Bangladesh.

• High-quality panels from Durasol and Exide.
• Expert installation and maintenance services.
• Best solar power solutions for homes and businesses in Bangladesh.
• Trusted supplier with a wide range of solar batteries, inverters, and accessories.

Wrapping Up

Solar panels are a reliable and renewable energy source for homes, offices, and industries in Bangladesh. 

Understanding how solar panels work step by step helps you make informed choices, improve energy efficiency, and enjoy uninterrupted power. 

For top-quality solar panels and support, trust MK Technology.

Frequently Asked Questions