Efficient Solar Panels
The Most Efficient Solar Panels
Furthermore, as traditional sources of power become evermore expensive, energy derived from renewable sources are becoming more attractive and sought after.
It is estimated, given the world governments' increasing commitment to the use of renewable energy sources, that by the year 2030 some 14% of the world's energy will be provided by solar power.
The term solar panel actually describes two types of device, to give them their technical names:
1. Solar photovoltaic modules
2. Solar thermal collectors.
Solar thermal collectors use the sun's energy to heat water (in domestic use) or other fluids. A good solar hot water panel is able to provide an average household with around a third of its annual hot water supply.
Solar cells are interconnected and assembled into panels which require protection form the environment to allow them to continue to work effectively. The construction of the frame within which the solar cells are housed is vital. A solar panel installation usually consists of multiple panels called an array.
Building integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) are increasingly being integrated into new domestic and industrial buildings either as a principal or an ancillary source of electrical power.
Solar Panels - What is Solar Energy and How is it Generated?
Wind, hydro, and geothermal power are examples of alternative energy, but the most popular option is solar energy.
We utilize solar energy with the help of solar cells. Remember using solar powered calculators in school? Those calculators had a small solar panel, usually above the display screen, which was responsible for powering the machine without the help of batteries. Basically, the solar cells used for these calculators are called photovoltaic (PV) cells, which convert sunlight into electricity. Solar energy is environmentally responsible; by not supporting coal/fossil/kerosene-burning energies, we contribute to improving the air-quality. Generating solar energy also reduces the amount of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. Collecting and generating energy from the sun also reduces the risk of fires. Energy from the sun doesn't involve any such risks.
Solar panels are the safe, money-efficient energy option for the forward-thinking consumer.