No, solar panels cannot operate without electricity. Solar panels are designed to convert sunlight into electrical energy through a process called the photovoltaic effect. When sunlight strikes the solar panels, the photons (particles of light) transfer their energy to the electrons in the solar cells, causing them to become energized and create an electric current.
The electric current generated by the solar panels is in the form of direct current (DC). To make use of this electricity, it needs to be converted to alternating current (AC) if it is intended for use in standard household or commercial electrical systems. This conversion is typically done by an inverter, which converts the DC electricity from the solar panels into AC electricity that can power appliances and devices.
Therefore, solar panels rely on the generation and conversion of electricity to be useful. Without electricity, the solar panels would not be able to produce power or operate.