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DIY Knowledge

Solar cells

Solarzellen

Células solares

Cellule solaire

Semi-conducting silicon crystals are capable of converting sunlight directly into electrical energy. The efficiency ratio of solar cells available today is just under 10%. Solar panels are individual solar cells which are grouped together and interconnected. Individual cells have an average operating voltage of 0.42 to 0.56 V which means that in order to charge a 12 V battery, 34 to 36 cells have to be connected in series. Solar battery chargers are maintenance-free. Solar energy is available free of charge anywhere, and it can be used to recharge NiCd-batteries for cordless power tools independent of mains power.