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APS Power Plant Tours
Solar Power Plants Overview A solar power plant is simply a group of photovoltaic (PV) cells. PV cells are square-shaped modules, usually made from the element silicon, that convert sunlight directly into electricity. The solar panels used by APS change about 10 percent of the sun's light into electricity. When sunlight strikes the electrons that are orbiting the silicon atoms, some of the electrons are knocked to the surface of the cell. An electron imbalance occurs which causes a current of electricity between the negative and positive sides of the PV module. This direct current (DC) is changed to alternating current (AC) by an inverter. It then passes through the power line, into your home, where you can use it for lighting and powering electric appliances. PV Cells A photovoltaic cell is a semiconductor crystal that has an internal electric field. When sunlight strikes a PV cell, it knocks an electron (-) free from its atom and routs the electron out to the cell's wires to provide electricity. At the same time, other electrons are returning to the atom through the opposite wire, so the process continues. PV cells were first used on U.S satellites and spacecraft in the 1950s. Now they can also be found on items such as calculators, highway signs, and in homes in remote areas. PV cells don't pollute the air or harm the environment. Most traditional forms of electricity generation use fossil fuels such as coal and natural gas or oil. Not only can fossil fuels pollute the air; they are also non-renewable, meaning we can't make more once we use up the Earth's supply. Locations The following is a list of APS solar power plants in Arizona. These solar power plants have been built as a result of a partnership between APS and APS Solar Partners.
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