A solar panel (also called PV panels) is a device which converts the light of the sun, composed of “photons”, to electricity. This electricity can then be used for electrical loads.
Solar panels are used in a variety of ways, including for remote power systems, telecommunications devices, remote sensing and, of course, for residential and commercial solar powered systems.
We will cover the history, benefits, and technology of solar panels on this page. Learn how solar panels are made, how electricity is generated, and how to buy them.
The History of Solar Panels
Edmond Becquerel is credited with discovering the photovoltaic effects.
Solar energy has been developed for more than a century. Solar energy was first used for steam production, which then could be used to power machinery. Edmond Becquerel’s discovery of the “photovoltaic” effect was the first to allow sunlight to be converted into solar electric power. Charles Fritts, a scientist who was inspired by Becquerel’s discovery in 1893, invented the first solar cell by coating sheets selenium with gold. From this humble beginning, the solar panel we know today was born.
Russel Ohl was an American inventor working for Bell Laboratories in 1941. He patented the first silicon solar panel. Ohl’s discovery led the same company to produce the first solar panel by 1954. Satellites were the first to use solar panels in a mainstream way. Most people’s first solar panel was likely embedded in their calculator in the 1970s.
Solar panels and solar panel systems can be used for a variety of applications. Solar cells, which are solar panels, can still be found in calculators. They are also used to power entire commercial and residential buildings, including Google’s California headquarters.
How do solar panels work?
Solar Photovoltaic Power System Diagram
Solar panels convert sunlight into electricity that can be used for powering electrical loads. Solar panels are made up of individual solar cells, which are composed of layers of silicon (which gives the negative charge), phosphorous (which gives the positive charge), and boran (which gives the positive charge). Solar panels absorb photons, and by doing so, initiate an electric charge. The energy created by photons hitting the surface of a solar panel causes electrons to be knocked from their orbits, and then released into an electric field produced by solar cells. These free electrons are then pulled into a direction current. The Photovoltaic Effect is the name of this entire process. The average house has enough roof space to install enough solar panels to meet all its energy needs. Any excess power generated is fed into the main grid and pays off by reducing electricity usage at night.
A solar array connected to the grid can generate power all day, which is used at home during the night. Solar generator owners can get paid through net metering if they produce more energy than is required in the home. Battery bank, charge control, and, in many cases, inverter, are all necessary components for off-grid applications. Charge controllers send direct current (DC), electricity from the solar array to the battery bank. The battery bank is used to draw power from, and the inverter converts it into AC for use with non-DC appliances. Solar panel arrays are sized using an inverter to meet even the most demanding electrical requirements. The AC current is used to power loads for homes or commercial buildings. It can also be used in recreational vehicles, boats, remote cottages or homes, remote traffic control, telecommunications gear, oil and gasoline flow monitoring, RTU and SCADA.
The Benefits of Solar Power
Solar panels are a practical way to generate electricity. Off-grid living is the obvious choice. Off-grid living is when you live in an area that’s not connected to the main grid of electric utilities. Solar power systems are a great option for remote homes and cabins. It is no longer necessary to pay a large fee for the installation and cabling of electric utility poles from the nearest grid access point. Solar electric systems are less expensive, and they can last up to three decades with proper maintenance.
Solar power, aside from making it possible to live without a grid, is a clean source of energy that is renewable. In the face of climate change, we must do everything we can to reduce pressure on the atmosphere caused by greenhouse gases. Solar panels are easy to maintain because they have no moving components. When properly maintained, they are durable and can last for many decades.
Solar panels and solar energy are also free to use for the rest of their lifespan. This could last up to 15-20 years, depending on how well the system is made. Grid-tied solar power systems can provide benefits from the moment they are installed. They could eliminate monthly electric bills, or even earn the owner extra income. How? You can sell excess solar power to your utility company if you don’t use as much power as your system produces.
Solar panels can be used for many more applications, and there are too many benefits to list. As you browse through our website, you will gain a general understanding of how versatile and convenient the solar energy can be.
What is the cost of solar panels?
The prices of solar panels have dropped significantly in the past couple of years. It is great that, with the federal solar Investment Tax Credit of 30$ and other incentives, now is the time to invest in solar power systems. Consider this: A solar power system is about the price of a mid-sized vehicle!
Where can I purchase solar panels?
Solar Panels
You can find it right here, on this website!
These brands are the most reputable in the solar industry. These include names like BP Solar and General Electric. Only the best solar panels are available from manufacturers who have a track record of success in solar panel technology. Myliontech.com has been in the solar industry for over 30 years. We know solar panels.