How can Solar Power convert power?

Answer 1

In a crystal, the bonds [between silicon atoms] are made of electrons that are shared between all of the atoms of the crystal. The light gets absorbed, and one of the electrons that's in one of the bonds gets excited up to a higher energy level and can move around more freely than when it was bound. That electron can then move around the crystal freely, and we can get a current.

Imagine that you have a ledge, like a shelf on the wall, and you take a ball and you throw it up on that ledge. That's like promoting an electron to a higher energy level, and it can't fall down. A photon [packet of light energy] comes in, and it bumps up the electron onto the ledge [representing the higher energy level] and it stays there until we can come and collect the energy [by using the electricity].

Answer 2

Solar power is converted into electricity through the use of photovoltaic cells, also known as solar panels. When sunlight hits the solar panels, it excites electrons within the cells, generating a flow of electricity. This electricity can then be stored in batteries or fed into the electrical grid for use in homes or businesses.