Solar panels are a solution for homes not connected to the national grid. Many areas in the US are so cut off from civilization that they require their power system.
For years, people have been using generators that require gas or petrol. As people become more aware of the depleting gas and oil resources, the world is shifting to solar power.
Solar panels are the easiest way to provide energy to your home using solar energy. If you’re new to solar panels and energy, read on as we tell you more.
What are Solar Panels?
Solar panels contain photovoltaic cells that can capture the solar energy from the sun and convert it into electrical energy for you to use. Solar panels contain many photovoltaic cells; all arranged together to provide maximum energy.
Solar panels are currently the major technology that solar power systems use. You need to know how they work. Solar panel systems are generally connected to an inverter that can convert the DC from the panels to AC, that then powers the home.
How Do They Work?
Each photovoltaic cell is made of silicon and can generate a small amount of electricity. Since these photovoltaic cells are then arranged in a panel, they can create enough electricity to charge something in your home.
The panels are then connected to an inverter that converts DC to AC to be used in your home. The setup may also be attached to a battery which may store that energy and provide it later.
How Long do Solar Panels Last?
Solar panels can easily last anywhere from 20-30 years, depending on how well you maintain them. The efficiency of these solar panels will also decrease over the years, meaning that they may not be as effective at providing the same amount of electricity over time.
You may have to replace these solar panels or add more to the mix to ensure that your electrical needs are met. Many companies offer a 25-30 year warranty for these panels, which means you can easily replace them if they don’t work at their full function.
What are the Major Components of Solar Panel Power Systems?
Several parts of a solar panel power system work in cohesion to provide you with power. These include the following:
Solar Panels
It would be best to decide your energy needs before buying solar panels. Most homes need anywhere from 5kW to 20kW, depending on their size. Solar panels are necessary to capture solar energy.
Inverter
The inverter must also be of the same power as the solar panels, as it needs to convert that power from DC to AC.
Battery
You want a battery that can store the solar power generated from your solar panels. The bigger your battery, the more energy it will store. You can then easily access the stored energy whenever you want or choose to sell it to the national grid.
Charge Controller
This component is necessary as it helps to modulate the flow of electricity from the panels to the battery so that it doesn’t get fried in the process.
