Solar Energy

Each day enough solar energy falls to the Earth to supply the world's energy needs for more than 27 years.

The Solar Panels at Sci-Quest contain photovoltaic or PV modules. PV modules are made from a special material called silicon, which acts as a semiconductor or "magnet" for energy.

When sunlight strikes the PV portion of the modules, the semiconductor material absorbs a portion of its energy. That energy then unlocks the electrons in the PV modules loose, allowing them to flow freely and create an electric current.

Click the Real-time Data box on the left to see just how much power is being generated at Sci-Quest right now. More information about the solar panels at Sci-Quest can be found here.

Green Power is made available to Sci-Quest by the Tennessee Valley Authority and Huntsville Utilities. Click here for more information about TVA and the "Green Power Switch."