Solar energy is the ultimate source of energy.This energy consists of radiant light and and heat energy from the sun. The sun doesn’t just provide warmth and light – it’s also a source of energy.

Solar energy (or solar power) is the energy we generate from sunlight. Through a process known as the photovoltaic effect, we can convert energy from the sun’s rays into electricity that can power our TVs, refrigerators, lights and other appliances.

Solar panel have emerged as a technology in the pursuit of a cleaner and more sustainable future. By harnessing sunlight and converting it into electricity, solar panels provide a renewable energy source that is both environmentally friendly and economically viable. This article will delve into the workings of solar panels, their benefits, and their potential to revolutionize the energy landscape.

TABLE OF CONTENT

• What are solar panels made of and how do they work?
• What are the types of solar panels on the market?
• How is solar panel efficiency measured?
• What are the pros and cons of solar panel?
• How much does it cost to hire a solar installer?
• Do solar systems require maintenance?

1-What are SOLAR PANEL made of and how do they work?

Solar cells are made primarily from silicon, a chemical element with conductive properties. Exposure to light changes silicon’s electrical characteristics, which generates an electric current.

Solar panels consist of photovoltaic (PV) cells, typically made from silicon. These cells possess the photovoltaic effect, enabling them to convert sunlight directly into electricity. Sunlight energizes the electrons in the silicon, generating an electric current. This direct current (DC) is then converted into alternating current (AC) using an inverter, making it compatible with the electrical grid or for direct use in powering devices.

It takes multiple panels to provide power to a typical home or office. A collection of panels in your system is called an array. Panels wired into the same inverter are known collectively as a string of panels. (Inverters have a maximum string size, an upper limit to the number of panels they can support.)

2-What are the types of solar panels on the market?

There are two established cell technologies that dominate the market: monocrystalline and polycrystalline solar cells (mono and poly, for short).

Mono cells are cut from a single source of silicon, while poly cells are made by blending multiple bits of silicon into a single cell.

In addition to mono and poly panels, there are several emerging technologies to keep an eye out for, like thin film and bifacial panels.

The main difference between the two technologies is the type of silicon solar cell they use: monocrystalline solar panels have solar cells made from a single crystal of silicon, while polycrystalline solar panels have solar cells made from many silicon fragments melted together.

3-How is solar panel efficiency measured?

To estimate the efficiency of a solar panel, expressed as a percentage, use the following calculation:

The efficiency of a solar panel is significantly influenced by its surface area, which determines its ability to convert sunlight into electrical energy. Evaluating the efficiency of a solar panel involves a comparative analysis of the solar energy received from the sun and the resulting electricity produced by the panel. It is impractical for a solar panel to transform all of the incident light energy into electricity, as this would imply a 100% efficiency rate.

The efficiency rating measures how much of the sun’s potential energy is converted to solar power. Using the same example, a 100-watt panel with a 20% efficiency rating will absorb 20% of the potential 500 watts of continuous power coming from the sun.

4-What are the pros and cons of solar panel?

 Undoubtedly, the sun is a powerful energy source, and even though we are not able to collect a fraction of this energy, harnessing this power by installing solar panels can make a significant difference to the planet.

PROS OF SOLOR PANEL	CONS OF SOLOR PANEL
Renewable and Sustainable	Costing and maintanance
Energy Independence	Weather Dependent
Job Creation and Economic Growth	Solar Energy Storage is Expensive
Scalability and Versatility	Uses a Lot of Space
Reduces Electricity Bills	Associated with Pollution

5-How much does it cost to hire a solar installer?

Average Cost	Rs. 44,000
Lowest Cost	Rs. 32,000
Highest Cost	Rs. 50,000

6-Do solar systems require maintenance?

Solar panels require very little maintenance. Most of it is centered around clearing debris off the panels, which would block sunlight from hitting the solar cells and hinder production.

In cold climates, snow can pile up on your panels. Use a soft brush or broom to wipe them down without scratching the glass surface.

Same goes for dry climates where dust can settle on the panels. It’s a good idea to wipe down the panels a few times a year to clear off dust and debris. In more temperate climates, once a year is probably fine.

Some of the annual maintenance services for solar systems include:

• Performing a general performance check of the system by reviewing the daily performance data to detect any major changes in output
• Checking the solar panels to ensure that they are clean, free of fractures, scratches, corrosion, moisture penetration and browning.
• Cabling should be checked to ensure it is secure and the voltage of strings is within the stipulated tolerance.
• Checking the mounting hardware to ensure it is in good condition and ensuring the earth connection is continuous.
• Checking of junction boxes to ensure there is no water accumulation and that the integrity of lid seals, connections and clamping devices is intact.
• Checking of breakers for any damage, and to verify that the isolation devices are working correctly
• Checking of fuse boxes for water damage and resistive joints on connections
• Inspecting the inverters to assess any damage, checking for any resistive joints on connections and verifying the DC voltage coming into the inverter.

Conclusion

Solar panels are revolutionizing the generation and consumption of electricity. With their renewable nature, cost-effectiveness, and positive environmental impact, they provide a viable alternative to traditional energy sources. As technology continues to advance and support for solar energy grows, solar panels are poised to play a pivotal role in the global transition towards a sustainable future. By harnessing the power of the sun, we can create a cleaner and more resilient energy system for generations to come.For installation related queries more info on-https://www.seci.co.in/