A Beginners Guide to Photovoltaic Solar Energy
What is Solar Power? And How Does It Work?
Solar power is the name given to any power that uses the energy or light given off by the sun and turns it’s into electricity or another energy form. For many years solar energy was limited to large scale companies and enterprises due to solar power panels being expensive. This is however starting to change with more domestic applications being seen and equipment coming down in price.
How Do We Use Solar Power?
Solar power is harnessed by converting sunlight into energy via a cell or panel. These panels absorb the light and turn it into either heat or electricity which we can use to power our homes or businesses. These panels typically come in the form of tiles (similar to roof tiles) or cells and panels that are transparent making them ideal for use in conservatories. Of course, there are different forms of solar power panels but perhaps the most widely used are photovoltaic panels.
What is Photovoltaic Solar Energy?
Perhaps the most widely recognised of all solar power technologies, photovoltaic or PV is a solar technology that can convert the light from the sun directly into electricity. Recent years have seen the use of photovoltaic solar panels increase dramatically as more and more home and business owners are making attempts to be more eco-friendly. As a result the production and manufacture of residential solar panels has speeded up in order to meet demands. Photovoltaic solar energy is thought to be the fastest growing renewable energy in the world.
PV technology works using a series of solar cells and solar modules that are connected together in what are known as solar photovoltaic arrays which can then be used to convert sunlight into electricity. Inside each of the cells are a number of electrons that react to the photons given of the sunlight. It is this reaction that’s creates electricity.
The electricity they produce can then be used to power electrical equipment or to recharge batteries. The very first photovoltaic panels were used in space to power satellites but are now used predominantly for generating power after being connected to the grid via a DC to AC inverter.
Can I Use Photovoltaic Energy at My Home?
For residential use a series of solar panels will be positioned together in an array which can be utilised in homes in the form of tiles for example on roofs. As long as the tiled surface is within 90 degrees of south and not overshadowed or blocked for lengthy periods, solar power will be effective.
Solar power panels can be hugely beneficial for many homes, powering both heat and electricity and if roof tiles are not suitable, transparent conservatory tiles are available that produce energy and provide shade at the same time. One thing to consider however is that in some areas planning permission is needed before solar power panels can be installed so it is always wise to check first.
How Much Will Cost It Cost Me? And Are the End Results Worth It?
Pricewise, solar power panels are much more cost effective than in the past. Advancements in technology coupled with panels being readily accessible, means that even home owners are seeing renewable solar energy as an option to both reduce overall energy costs as well as help the environment.
With this technology being more affordable, solar power panels may even be something worth considering when it comes time to change our roof tiles. After all, in the long run, money will be saved. Also, government grants are available in some cases to further ease the costs involved.
Since maintenance is relatively low with modern solar power panels combined with price and the amount of power generated, it is little wonder that they are becoming increasingly popular for domestic use. Renewable solar energy is still a new and exciting technology therefore is definitely worth investing in for a large number of the general public.