Best Solar Panels

14
Mar

Posted by admin in How do solar panels work?

Guide To Selecting The Best Solar Panels For Your Solar Energy System

The use of solar panels has enjoyed a widespread growth over the past decade, evolving from exclusivity to major industrial and research applications to becoming available for individual homeowners and project planners the world over.

In any well-designed and properly maintained system, solar panels can help slash electric bills, increase the energy efficiency of a given building, and significantly add to the global effort to end dependency on limited natural resources.

The design and implementation of a system can be as varied as your budget and your project require. Get to know all about the various components of a solar energy system, including basic accessories like battery banks and power inverters, to ensure you create a system that’s right for your particular application.

Of course, one of the most important components of a solar energy system is the set of solar panels themselves, and choosing the right kind is an essential first step.

Solar panels are distinguished by their series of photovoltaic cells, which convert energy from sunlight to useful energy available for a wide range of applications. These photovoltaic or "solar" cells are recognizable by their dark blue or black appearance on most arrays. But there are actually three distinct types of solar panel cells, each with different benefits and drawbacks.

The most expensive, and yet most efficient, solar cells are called "monocrystalline," so named for their derivation from a single crystal of silicon. Monocrystalline solar cells are rigid, and such arrays are not flexible.

Solar cells derived from a number of silicon crystals are dubbed "polycrystalline," and while a little less efficient, are also a little less costly than their single-crystal cousins. Also rigid, these cells are likewise used in arrays that cannot be bent or flexed.

A third kind of solar cell, called "amphorous," is of an entirely different construction; a slim sheet of amphorous silicon is laid over a substrate, differing depending on application. These amphorous cells can be bought at a much lower cost than traditional crystalline cell models, but their setbacks may not justify their price; these cells are significantly less efficient, and tend to lose their energy conversion potential over time. One particular perk associated with amphorous cells, however, is their ability to flex, making them appropriate for applications requiring curved surfaces.

Whether you opt for a classic array of monocrystalline solar panels or you incorporate the versatility of amphorous cells into an original design, the use of a solar energy system is sure to bring you satisfaction and savings.

By: Andy Bauer