HOW SOLAR WORKS
2024
Great energy begins with a ray of sunshine.
We collaborated on an animation that simplifies how solar panels convert sunlight into usable electricity. With colourful visuals, friendly iconography, and crystal-clear storytelling, we made understanding solar power feel effortless, accessible, and entertaining.
Project Details
Organisation: TAFE NSW
Target Audience: Learners exploring the solar energy industry
Platforms: TAFE NSW Learning Portal
Project Overview
Harnessing solar energy is a clean and renewable way to power our homes and businesses—but how exactly does sunlight become usable electricity? This animation breaks down the process clearly and engagingly, showing how something as simple as sunshine hitting a panel transforms into electrical energy that powers our everyday lives.
The Process
The process begins when sunlight hits photovoltaic panels installed typically on rooftops or solar farms. These panels contain photovoltaic cells made from high-purity silicon, carefully engineered to act as semiconductors. When sunlight strikes these silicon cells, it energizes and releases electrons, generating a flow of electricity. This phenomenon, known as the photoelectric effect, is the heart of solar power technology.
The generated electricity is initially direct current (DC), which must pass through an inverter. This device converts it into alternating current (AC)—the type of electricity most homes and devices use. Once converted, the electricity seamlessly integrates into the power grid, ready to power everything from your home lighting to electric vehicles.
Style
Our approach to this animation emphasises clarity through a vibrant, colourful graphic style that intuitively illustrates the conversion of sunlight to electricity. The visuals feature animated electrons, clearly highlighted solar cells, and recognisable electrical infrastructure to ensure viewers understand every step effortlessly. Universal iconography and simple text explanations reinforce key concepts, making solar energy accessible and understandable to everyone.
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