Solar 101
A Beginner’s Guide To Solar System
What is Solar Power?
The sunlight that reaches our planet is composed of different types of radiation. Approximately 50% of the sunlight is visible light, while around 45% is made up of infrared radiation, ultraviolet rays, and other forms of electromagnetic radiation. These various types of radiation have the ability to trigger chemical reactions that can produce electricity.
The energy emitted by the sun is harnessed and utilized in two main ways:
- Thermal power
- Electric power.
Thermal power involves capturing the sun’s energy through flat plate collectors, which are commonly used in solar heating systems. These collectors convert the captured energy into thermal energy, which can be used for various purposes.
On the other hand, electric power harnesses the sun’s radiation directly through photovoltaic cells also called the solar cells. These cells convert the solar radiation into electricity without the need for any intermediate steps. This electricity can then be used to power various devices and systems.
Unlocking the magic of solar energy is simpler than you think! Imagine capturing the sun’s rays to power your world. That’s exactly what a solar installation does, bringing clean, renewable energy straight to your doorstep.
Solar Components
Solar Components
- Solar Panels: These are the main collectors of sunlight in your solar power system. They capture sunlight and convert it into electrical energy.
- Inverter: This device converts the DC power produced by your solar panels and stored in your batteries into AC power, which is the standard used by most household appliances.
- Batteries: They store the power generated by the panels. The more energy you can store, the more you can use when the sun isn’t shining.
- Regulator (Controller): This is the system’s brain. It manages the charging process to prevent your batteries from overcharging or over-draining, both of which can reduce their lifespan.
What are Solar Panels?
Solar panels, also known as photovoltaic panels, harness the power of the sun to generate electricity.
They are made up of multiple solar cells that convert sunlight into usable energy. These cells are typically made from silicon, a semiconductor material that is highly efficient at capturing sunlight. These cells possess a positive layer as well as a negative layer, resulting in the formation of an electric field.
When the sun’s rays hit the solar panels, the photons in the sunlight knock electrons loose from their atoms, creating an electric current. This current, propelled by voltage, flows through the various wires and components within your system.
Types of Solar Panels
Monocrystalline Solar Panels
Monocrystalline solar panels boast an average efficiency ranging from 15% to 24%.
They’re made from cutting wafers from a single block of very pure silicon. These panels look uniform, with small black squares and notched corners. You’ll usually find them with a white or black backsheet. What’s great about these panels is that they’re really good at making electricity, especially when it’s hot or shady outside.
They tend to produce more solar power than other panels of the same size. They’re also known for being tough and lasting a long time. But they can be expensive and create more waste during production.
Polycrystalline Solar Panels
Polycrystalline solar panels are quite common and usually have an efficiency between 12% and 16%.
They’re made by melting and compressing bits from different silicon crystals into a big solar cell. These cells look a bit shiny and have a surface that’s not all the same, kind of like gems. They’re often blue in color. Polycrystalline panels aren’t as efficient as some others, but they’re cheaper.
They’re also better for the environment because they waste less silicon during manufacturing. These panels are everywhere, especially because they’ve been mass-produced in China. They typically have a special glass cover that helps them soak up more sunlight, along with a protective backsheet.
Thin-film Solar Panels
Thin-film solar panels are a different type and have an average efficiency of around 7% to 13%.
Instead of using solid silicon crystals, they’re made with a thin layer of special materials like noncrystalline amorphous silicon, cadmium telluride, or copper indium gallium selenide. These materials are laid onto surfaces like glass, plastic, or metal. Thin-film panels are usually larger and have a solid black color.
They’re a good option if you have plenty of space since they’re not as efficient as other types. But they’re cheaper to make and are lightweight and flexible. This makes them easy to move around and install. However, they might not last as long as other panels.
Silicon Panels Comparison
| Silicon Cell Type | Efficiency | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monocrystalline | 15%-24% | Highest efficiency, durability, proven performance | Higher cost |
| Polycrystalline | 12%-16% | Lower cost, improved efficiencies | Lower efficiency, poorer aesthetics |
| Thin-Film | 7%-13% | Low cost, easy to make, best aesthetics | Low efficiency, less proven |
Solar Panels in The Market
How large are solar panels?
Solar panels come in various configurations which are capable of generating up to 590 watts of power. Here are the typical dimensions for various types of solar panels:
- For comparison:
- 60 Cell PV Panels: Approximately 39 inches x 65 inches.
- 72 Cell PV Panels: Approximately 39 inches x 77 inches.
- 96 Cell PV Panels: Approximately 41.5 inches x 62.6 inches.
- 144 Cell PV Panels: Approximately 89.69 inches x 44.61 inches
Please note that specific dimensions may vary slightly depending on the manufacturer and model of the solar panel.
In the past, the general rule for solar panels was that larger sizes meant higher wattage. However, recent advancements in technology have led many manufacturers to improve efficiency, resulting in a shift away from strict size-based guidelines.
How many solar panels will I need?
Solar panels are designed to be durable and long-lasting, typically with a lifespan of 25 to 30 years.
However, this can vary depending on factors such as the quality of materials used, the manufacturer’s warranty, and the level of maintenance provided. Most reputable manufacturers now offer warranties of up to 30 years, guaranteeing that their panels will still produce at least 80% of their rated power output after the warranty period.
These warranties typically include a 12 years product warranty in addition to the 25-30 years power warranty.
This comprehensive coverage provides peace of mind to consumers, ensuring that their investment in solar energy is protected against potential defects or performance issues. With proper care and maintenance, solar panels can continue to generate clean and renewable energy for decades, making them a reliable and cost-effective solution for homeowners and businesses alike.
How long do solar panels last? (Solar Warranties)
Solar panels are designed to be durable and long-lasting, typically with a lifespan of 25 to 30 years.
However, this can vary depending on factors such as the quality of materials used, the manufacturer’s warranty, and the level of maintenance provided. Most reputable manufacturers now offer warranties of up to 30 years, guaranteeing that their panels will still produce at least 80% of their rated power output after the warranty period.
These warranties typically include a 12 years product warranty in addition to the 25-30 years power warranty.
This comprehensive coverage provides peace of mind to consumers, ensuring that their investment in solar energy is protected against potential defects or performance issues. With proper care and maintenance, solar panels can continue to generate clean and renewable energy for decades, making them a reliable and cost-effective solution for homeowners and businesses alike.
Is my home suitable for solar panels?
While solarpanels are great for saving energy and money, it’s important to check if they’re right for your home.
They work well in different climates, but trees or nearby buildings might block sunlight and make them less effective.
Also, your roof’s size, shape, and angle are important. Ideally, panels work best on roofs facing south and with a slope between 15 and 40 degrees. Before deciding, consider your roof’s condition too.
It’s highly recommended to consult a solar professional for installation instead of doing it yourself. By thinking about these things and seeking professional advice, you can decide if solar panels are a good fit for your home.
What are Solar Inverters?
Another important part of a solar power system is inverter technology.
The primary role of solar inverters is to convert DC power from solar panels into AC power, which is used in households. Additionally, they serve as the primary link between the panels and the electrical distribution panel within the home. Modern inverters are equipped with switches that enable the connection or isolation of your solar energy system from the power grid. Moreover, they provide comprehensive data to the monitoring equipment of your system.
There are three main types of inverters:
String Inverter
String inverters optimizes solar panel performance by converting DC electricity into usable AC electricity for homes and businesses, ensuring efficient energy utilization. The DC electricity from your solar system is channeled through a single inverter, which then connects to your electric panel.
String inverters manage strings of solar panels connected in series, converting DC electricity into AC electricity compatible with the electrical grid. They offer seamless integration with the grid, real-time performance monitoring, and flexibility in managing solar energy systems.
- Cost: String inverters are the most cost-effective inverter solution.
- Drawback: String inverters can have problems if some parts of the solar panels are shaded, or if one panel doesn’t work well, it might lower the performance of the whole system.
Microinverter
Unlike string inverters, microinverters are installed directly on each solar panel, converting DC electricity to AC electricity at the panel level. This allows for better performance monitoring and minimizes the impact of shading or panel mismatch.
- Cost: While microinverters may have a higher initial cost compared to string inverters, they can offer greater long-term benefits in terms of energy production and system reliability, making them cost-effective options for certain installations.
- Drawback: They usually cost more money initially and might need more maintenance because they are spread out across the system.
Hybrid inverter
- Cost: Although hybrid systems have higher upfront costs, they save money in the long run by reducing your need for grid electricity and giving you backup power, making them a smart investment for many people.
- Drawback: They cost more to set up because of the batteries, and battery maintenance is required.
Solar Inverters Based on Application
In Pakistan, there are three main types of inverters used for solar energy:
On-grid Inverters
On-grid inverters, also referred to as grid-tied inverters, are specifically tailored for grid-tie systems. They are designed to seamlessly integrate with the electrical grid.
These inverters efficiently convert the DC power generated by solar panels into AC power, synchronizing it with the utility grid. This enables the direct utilization of solar electricity within the building premises. Moreover, any surplus power produced can be fed back into the grid, allowing users to earn credits or compensation through net metering programs.
- What is net metering and how it works?
Off-grid Inverters
Off-grid inverters, also known as standalone inverters, are designed for solar systems that operate independently from the utility grid. They convert the DC power from solar panels into usable AC power, suitable for immediate consumption or storage in batteries. Typically used in remote areas or for off-grid applications like cabins and RVs, these inverters provide reliable energy solutions where grid access is limited. Their ability to store excess energy ensures uninterrupted power supply, making them essential for off-grid living.
Hybrid inverter
Hybrid inverters are made for hybrid solar systems, combining solar power with battery storage. They manage both solar panel inputs and battery storage, ensuring efficient use of solar energy, backup power during outages, and storing extra solar energy for later. A great advantage of hybrid inverters is their ability to work with both the grid and batteries. So, even during load shedding, you’ll still have access to power, making hybrid inverters a reliable choice for areas with frequent power outages.
- Solar Inverters: What you need to know