| |
Solar panels
consist of arrays of photovoltaic (PV) cells that
utilize the renewable energy from the sun in a
clean and environmentally sound way. Advances
in photovoltaic design have allowed increasingly
efficient and affordable solar cells, and in turn
solar panels, to be manufactured. The amount of
solar cells in a solar panel and the quality of
the solar cells determines the total electrical
output the solar panel can produce.
Ideally, solar panels consist of electrically
connected solar cells that form a module that
is typically 2-4 feet wide by 4-6 feet long. Some
modules even look like roof shingles. These modules
are then connected to form an array, which is
mounted on the roof of a building, facing south
at an |
 |
|
|
| |
angle to receive
the maximum amount of sunlight. Other solar panel systems
feature inverters that change the electricity from direct
current to an alternating current so that it can be
used by most standard appliances, computers, etc.
There are various
factors that affect the efficiency of solar panels.
Solar insolation, which is the amount of solar radiation
(the sun’s energy) that strikes a single location
over a period of time, is important since the greater
the insolation, the more solar energy can be converted
to electricity by the solar panel. Other factors that
affect the solar panel’s output include weather
conditions, shade caused by obstructions to direct sunlight,
and the angle and positioning of the panel(s).
Because solar panels work best in direct, unobstructed
sunlight, special mounts have been developed to follow
the position of the sun and rotate the solar panel (much
like a tank turret can be aimed independently of the
tank’s direction) to receive the maximum amount
of direct exposure during the day. Obstructions such
as trees or other items should be removed so the panel
is not blocked, as this will affect the solar panel’s
operating efficiency.
To properly install solar panels, adequate roof space
is necessary. Most residential photovoltaic systems
may require as little as 50 square feet for a smaller
system to as much as 1,000 square feet for larger systems.
Whether you are implementing a PV system into new construction
plans or considering a retrofit for an existing roof,
solar electricity can be an abundant, practical source
of energy for your home or office.
Solar panels and their use of photovoltaics offer consumers
the chance to generate clean, renewable energy while
preserving the earth’s fossil-fuel resources-
oil, coal, natural gas -and reducing air and noise pollution
associated with these energy sources. Recent technological
advances, combined with federal and state incentive
programs, have made owning and operating solar panels
a realistic option by reducing the cost of PV systems
and improving their efficiency. Solar panels are extremely
durable and reliable compared to other energy systems;
typical PV systems may last 30 years and require very
little maintenance.
|
|
