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How do solar panels generate electricity?

Solar panels or Solar Photovoltaics (PV) use the energy of the sun to generate electricity. You will often see them on top of houses and businesses, or perhaps in the form of a solar farm - where hundreds or even thousands of panels are laid out - normally in a sunny area.

Use the diagram above to see how solar panels work on a house. Some of the electricity is used directly at the property, and some is sold to the country, making use of the national grid.

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Climate and Energy HIWAVES

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Unit cover CE1416 GEO

Geography | Ages 14-16

Climate and Energy

Climate and Energy is an exciting unit which invites students to explore the connection between the global climate and energy use both locally and internationally, with a focus on renewable energy.

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