The world needs a new source of energy, an unspillable source.

How is energy from solar panels converted to energy that can be used for solar power?

I want to do a science project where I create my own solar panels out of different materials to see which one will produce the greatest amount of energy. Is this a realistic topic if it has to be done before Thanksgiving? If so, how do I make the solar panels? How do I measure/convert the energy? Please help!