What is PV & how does it work?

PV stands for photovoltaic. Photo = Light and Voltaic = Electricity. A solar cell converts light to electricity. 

A solar cell is made of silicon. Computer chips are made of this same material. Basically, when light strikes the surface of a solar cell some of it is absorbed into the silicon. This light energy bumps the electrons loose and causes energy to flow. 

By packaging approximately 36 solar cells together a solar panel or a solar module is created. When you have more then one solar panels you create a solar array.