Mining and photovoltaic panels

Solar panels convert light from the sun into electrical energy through a photovoltaic process, a special process to separate electrons from sunlight to create electricity.

In turn, according to Camimex, photovoltaic cells are devices made of light-sensitive metals that release electrons when photons strike them, converting light energy into electrical energy.

In an overview, Enphase Energy explains that the solar industry is moving from solar-only systems to complete energy management solutions, consisting of solar power, batteries, charge control, electric vehicle charging, third-party generator compatibility, and grid services.

In particular, this transition has contributed to the growing global interest in the total electrification of homes and businesses through renewable energy sources.

A combination of several cells forms a photovoltaic panel or module. A solar panel requires silicon (5%); phosphorus and boron, aluminum (8%), copper (1%), and silver (0.1 percent).

Each of the metals in a solar panel serves its purpose, but when put together in the final product, it is a way to harness the sun’s energy and use it efficiently.

Photovoltaic panels

In its Sustainability Report 2023, Camimex gives the following examples.

Silicon

It is used in the manufacture of chips and, because it does not produce conductive regions, it is combined with other elements to promote the conduction of electricity.

Aluminum

This metal is combined with magnesium and zinc to produce cell frames.

Copper

Due to its conductive properties, it is the main component of electrical wiring in mobile devices.

Silver

Silver powder is made into a paste which is then loaded onto a silicon wafer.

When light hits the silicon, electrons are released and the silver transports electricity for immediate use or stores it in batteries for later consumption.

Silver is the world’s most conductive metal, so it is also used in semiconductor chips, printed circuit boards, wiring, CPUs and cell phones.

In the United States, in June 2022, the Biden Administration used its executive powers to enact a 24-month tariff moratorium on solar panels manufactured in Cambodia, Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam.

The moratorium comes in direct response to concerns raised about the adverse impact of the ongoing Department of Commerce complaint on the U.S. solar industry.