A solar panel — also called a solar module — is a flat, rectangular device composed of many individual photovoltaic (PV) cells wired together. These panels are the primary building blocks of any solar energy system, designed to capture sunlight and convert it into usable electrical power for homes and businesses.
Most residential solar panels contain 60 or 72 silicon-based PV cells arranged in a grid pattern beneath a layer of tempered glass. The cells are encapsulated in ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) and backed by a durable polymer sheet, all held together by an aluminum frame. This construction protects the cells from weather while allowing maximum light penetration.
There are three main types of solar panels available to homeowners. Monocrystalline panels offer the highest efficiency (20–22%) and sleek black appearance but come at a premium price. Polycrystalline panels provide a good balance of efficiency (15–17%) and affordability with their distinctive blue hue. Thin-film panels are lightweight and flexible but less efficient, making them better suited for specific applications.
A typical residential solar panel produces between 300 and 400 watts of power under ideal conditions. Most home installations require 15–25 panels to offset the majority of electricity usage. With proper installation and minimal maintenance, solar panels reliably generate clean electricity for 25–35 years, making them one of the most durable and cost-effective home improvements available.