Solar panels exploit the photovoltaic effect by absorbing particles of light (photons), extracting the electrons and leading them through a wire: the flow of electrons itself is electricity. This is done by using solar cells made of semiconductor materials such as silicon, which have a negative layer and a positive one, creating a magnetic field. Therefore, solar panels are used to produce some or all of the electricity the house needs. Smaller solar systems will lead to big savings on energy bills, while larger ones can generate enough power to allow you to become independent from the grid.