Frequently Asked
Questions about Solar Panels
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As the financial and environmental cost of relying on
traditional fossil fuels rises, harnessing the energy of sun continually
proves itself to be a renewable, clean, and affordable solution for
a green future. Solar power is inexhaustible and available virtually
anywhere, making it an ideal resource for energy generation.
Solar panels
are the anchor of any portable,
residential or commercial
solar energy system. Solar cells
convert solar energy into electricity as part of interconnected module
systems that are laminated and framed in a durable, weatherproof package.
PV panel design allows for flexible installation options.
A site with unobstructed blue-sky exposure, such as the roof of a commercial
building, is a perfect candidate for PV panel installation. For panel
installation in the northern hemisphere, maximize southern exposure,
especially for the winter season. You can mount a solar system to a
home roof or use stand-alone pole-mounts, specifically designed to withstand
hurricane force wind. Trackers for pole-mounting systems augment fluid-pumping
applications.
In grid-tie applications, direct current
(DC) from solar modules is transformed into alternating current (AC)
via an inverter, which directly supplies power to electric appliances.
The surplus supplied by the panels is sent onto the grid and resold.
Grid-tie systems use a combination of PV modules, inverters and a network
to supply lighting, household power, and energy metering. Architects
combine function and aesthetics by integrating glass panels into building
structure and design.
In remote applications, PV systems provide
public lighting, assist high-powered pumping systems, and enhance telecommunications.
In off-grid homes, PV panels power lighting, radio, television, and
small household appliances. PV systems contribute to public lighting
by illuminating advertising and road signage or bus shelters. PV technology
improves the telecommunication infrastructure, powers maritime beacons,
and supports radio and television services.
Commercially viable PV products are made using either
crystalline silicon,
thin-film, or string-ribbon
technologies.