When was the last time you went a whole day without coming across an LED light? Considering they’re used in cars, TVs, computers, mobile phones, hi-vis clothing, traffic lights, and a number of medical devices, we’re guessing it’s been a while. In fact, LEDs are replacing other low energy light bulbs including their halogen and fluorescent predecessors in almost every application, and LED lights for the home are fast becoming the norm. So why has the LED become such an integral part of our lives? And what is LED anyway?

What is LED?

Not many consumers understand what an LED actually is. You might not think it when you look at an energy saving light bulb, but an LED (or light-emitting diode) lamp uses the same technology as a home solar panel, namely the P-N Junction. Scientifically speaking, the LED passes an electric current through a semiconductor, causing the semiconductor to emit light – a phenomenon known as electroluminescence. You can find out more about how solar panels work or the history of solar panels on our site.

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