A solar panel typically consists of multiple photovoltaic cells. Photovoltaic cells are electronic devices made from semiconductor materials that convert sunlight into usable direct current (DC) electricity. Each photovoltaic cell is made from a semiconductor material such as silicon, which has different electrical properties that enable it to capture sunlight and generate an electron flow. The photovoltaic cells are connected together via metal wires to collect the current at the output of the solar panel. Solar panels also include a protective layer of glass or plastic covering the cells, as well as a frame and mounting brackets to support and install the panel.