Solar panels are used to absorb the sun’s rays and convert them into electricity or heat. They are one of the most popularly explored technologies used to collect and transform solar energy directly into electricity.
The article sheds light on solar panels, solar energy, its benefits, and solar panels installation.
Solar energy- a basic understanding
Solar energy comes from the sun. It is available naturally in abundance and is a better alternative source of energy. Harnessing solar power involves using solar radiation that photovoltaic cells collect and convert into usable electric power.
As per reports, fossil fuels or non-renewable fuels cater to about 80% of the world’s energy requirements. However, overexploitation of fossil fuels and other non-renewable sources of energy can lead to their extinction in the future.
Why harness solar energy
Fossil fuels are explored to the extent of exploitation to derive usable power. However, they have several disadvantages associated with them, unlike solar energy.
Here are the advantages of using solar energy:
Eco-friendly
The burning of fossil fuels releases greenhouse gases, including carbon dioxide. These gases trap heat in the atmosphere, which causes global warming and climate changes.
According to the 2015 Paris Agreement, several countries have decided to take measures for reducing toxic emissions. The agreement popularized replacing fossil fuels with renewable energy sources (like solar energy) to electrify buildings and transportation.
Reduced electricity bill
The sun gives its energy freely to all. No additional cost is incurred (except for installing solar panels) to enjoy uninterrupted solar energy.
Solar Panels- A Brief Introduction
Solar panels collect and convert solar energy into usable electricity by a process called the photovoltaic effect. This technology works best for residential and commercial solar installation.
As per a reliable source, most solar panels installed generally last for about 20 to 25 years.
How does it work?
Commercial solar installations consist of many interlinked photovoltaic cells. When the sun rays strike these photovoltaic cells, they absorb the solar energy and transform it into the direct current (DC) electricity.
Then, DC energy is converted into usable AC electricity with the help of solar inverter technology. The excess AC electricity that the solar panels create gets stored in the electric grid.
Since the U.S. electric grid functions using AC electricity, maximum households here use AC electrical devices.
Installing solar panels
The internet is full of DIY solar panel installation videos and guides. Experts recommend hiring the services of certified professional installers from local solar companies, who are legally permitted to do the job.
The wiring and metering necessary for the installation is a serious and complex job. Linking the solar system to the electrical grid involves a huge (life-threatening) risk.
It takes one to three months in general to power a house/office with solar energy.
Company selection
Do your research online for a reliable solar panel installation company. Check for:
- The reputation of the company
- Their recent clients
- The estimated cost and time
After the selection, the job kick-starts.
Installer visits the site
The professional installer pays a visit and evaluates the property, in terms of:
- System size
- Roof type
- Roof angle
- Shading
A contract is then signed.
Engineer site visit
After signing the installation contract, an engineer comes to check if or not the electrical panel needs upgrading.
Logistical documentation necessary for the installation
The certified installer or the company typically handles all the paperwork. You need to apply for the federal ITC, local solar companies, PACE, government rebates, and solar renewable energy certificates (SRECs). Filling out the building permits is also essential.
Equipment selection
Choose solar panels and inverters. Do some research, see what the installer recommends, and select the best option in front of you.
After the paperwork is done, the equipment should mostly arrive on the installation day.
For installation
The installer-
- Ensures the tiles are appropriately attached.
- Does electrical wiring by connecting the electrical panel with the general power system.
- Installs racking (which is attached to the roof).
- Connects the inverter to the solar panels, transforming the DC energy into the AC one.
The timeframe ranges from one to three days.
The approval
A government (town) representative then checks the work. After the approval, the official grid interconnection goes live.
Wrapping up
Now, you know how families and businesses install solar panels to save money and minimize greenhouse emissions. Enjoy all the benefits by properly installing solar panels with the help of professional experts.
