Solar electric panels are a renewable source of electricity. These solar cells are composed of silicon and are able to produce energy from sunlight. The cells produce a small amount of electricity, which is then converted to alternating current (AC) using an inverter. This type of solar system is called photovoltaic (PV) and provides the highest levels of efficiency and reliability.
PV systems are often installed on roofs or in ground-mounted arrays. In some cases, they require planning permission, as they may be located in conservation areas. If you are considering installing a PV system, it is important to get a quote from several installers.
There are many advantages to installing a PV system, including its environmental benefits. Unlike power from the utility grid, the sun’s power is not contaminated by pollutants. Additionally, the material used in PV panels is recyclable. Furthermore, a well-designed PV system can easily meet your household’s needs in various orientations.
To calculate the efficiency of your PV system, you’ll need to use a calculator. For example, the Energy Saving Trust offers a web-based calculator that helps you estimate how much power your home could produce. You can also monitor your system’s production online. Depending on the size of your solar system, the energy produced can be used right away or stored in a battery until needed.
Aside from the solar panel’s efficiency, you’ll need to consider a few other factors, such as the Solar Electric Panels type of property you own, the number of occupants and the amount of electricity you will need. For example, a home with no occupants will have a lower energy requirement than a large office building.
The average domestic solar PV system is rated between 3.5kWp and 4kWp. It typically takes eight square feet of roof space for each kWp. However, it depends on your property’s layout, roof pitch, and electricity needs.
A micro inverter is a clever little device that is designed to maximize the efficiency of each individual solar cell. Micro inverters connect together in a chain to create a larger, higher voltage output. When a single panel is shaded, the central inverter is unable to convert as much power.
A two-way utility meter, or net meter, tracks the flow of energy between your solar system and the utility grid. The watts your solar system generates can be credited to your account if you have a net-metered agreement with your utility. Similarly, a net-metered system can spin a meter backward when your PV system produces more energy than you need.
While the technology behind solar panels is a new one, it is not too surprising that its cost has been on the decline. As a result, it has become a popular alternative to traditional electricity. Many homeowners have opted for a PV system as an environmentally friendly option.
Despite the growing popularity of solar electric panels, there are still many uncertainties about the future of the technology. Until then, they are a very promising alternative to conventional utilities.