Solar panels are undoubtedly the talk of the town. Why wouldn’t it be? With so many benefits for your property, home, and environment, the solar system is the trendsetter. Not only do they benefit your commercial and residential property but they are also an investment. They ensure you get a better return on your investment.
With more and more people going solar there are also few doubts related to the solar system. What is the solar panel’s efficiency over time? What is the lifespan of solar panels? Is it worth installing solar panels? Do you have the same questions buzzing around your head? If yes then you are at the right place to get an accurate answer to your questions.
To begin with, the most common question related to solar panels is: are solar panels efficient? Yes, solar panels are very efficient and a sound investment. However, as a rule of thumb, the efficiency of solar panels depends on the amount of sunlight that hits on the solar panels. The sunlight received by the panels is then converted to electricity. So, it’s all about the sunlight and the reflection of the sun’s rays.
Solar panels are capable of generating 15 -22 percent of solar energy. However, this depends on various factors such as weather conditions, placement, location, cleanliness, etc. The performance of the solar panels depends on the amount of sunlight that it is able to convert into electricity. The results and outcome of this process decide the efficiency of the solar panels.
However, there are many factors that decide the efficiency of solar panels. Keep reading to get detailed information about the efficiency, uses, working and benefits of solar panels. So, are you ready to get all the details, if yes, then swipe up!
Table of contents:
- How does the solar system work?
- Are solar panels energy efficient?
- Why should you inspect solar panels before purchasing?
- What is the cell efficiency of solar panels?
- Efficient solar panels
– Monocrystalline Solar Panels
– Polycrystalline Solar Panels
-Thin Film Solar Panels
- How to choose the right solar panels?
-Efficiency
– Cost of solar panel
– Consider the quality, guarantee, and warranty
– Specifications of solar panels
-Aesthetic value
- Break-even of solar panels
- Helps to save money
- Eliminates transmission loss and helps to get off the grid
- Do solar panels help the environment?
- Bottom line
How does the solar system work?
Are you new to the solar system? Curious to know about its working? Such curiosity is common when you get to know new things about the solar system. So, the main question is how does the solar system work? Is the working same for the residential and commercial solar system?
Well, the working of the solar system depends on the sun’s energy i.e heat and light which otherwise is called radiation. As discussed earlier, once the sunlight covers the solar panels it generates electricity. These panels are designed to absorb the sun’s light in any condition. Be it the rainy season, windy weather, winters or snowfall, solar panels can work in any condition.
How is this possible since the solar system is connected to the sun? Is solar energy-efficient for solar panels to work? Yes, the solar system is connected to the sun and solar energy is efficient for solar panels to function.
Take for example it is a cloudy day during the afternoon hours, but still, there is light, isn’t it? It’s not that you can’t see anything or it’s turned completely dark. This is because the sun is already present in the sky only the clouds have covered it. Even if the clouds cover the sunlight the reflection of the sun is enough to get the light and also for the working of solar panels.
So, this is how solar panels work even in extreme climate. Moreover, with solar batteries, you can even save energy to use it later. This is an extra benefit along with other advantages of the solar system.
Are solar panels energy efficient?
Solar panel’s efficiency over time and energy is based on various factors. If we talk about Arizona and Nevada the weather here is extremely sunny. Hence, solar panels are able to capture more power and function efficiently. In such states, 100 percent of the household and commercial need for electricity is fulfilled by solar panels.
Usually, solar panels are well connected to the power grid which enables net metering. Now, what is the use of this? Well, when the panel generates more than usual energy, the excess energy is sent back to the grid. Thus, it helps to save electricity and your money.
With the help of such a system, you can cut down the power bills. Moreover, this also helps you to earn credits on your residential and commercial solar system.
Even on those days when the sun is not bright with the help of net-metering, you can use solar energy efficiently. You can also make use of those credits earned to pay for the extra energy that you used.
Why should you inspect solar panels before purchasing?
A thorough inspection must be done before purchasing the solar panels. A few questions you need to consider is what are the materials used to build solar panels? Is solar energy-efficient for all weather types? What is the lifespan of the solar panels? You also need to purchase the solar panels from a reputed dealer to avoid any future loss.
Inspection of solar panels is necessary to avoid purchasing low-quality panels that may affect the efficiency and functioning. You also need to inspect the solar cells to ensure efficiency and durability. Also, remember the solar panels should be certified by a reputed organization.
All such inspection regarding solar panels is essential because it is a kind of investment. These panels in future will give you returns. So, it’s important to invest in a system that is sure to give you good value for your money.
What is the cell efficiency of solar panels?
Solar panel’s efficiency over time is measured and inspected to keep the panels working in good condition. But what is cell efficiency?
The solar panel’s cell efficiency is measured by silicon material and cell structure which is of N-type or P-type. The efficiency of the cell is calculated by fill factor (FF). It is the PV cell conversion efficiency at optimum current and voltage.
The design of the cell also determines panel efficiency. Some of the key features are passivation type, silicon type and multiple busbars. The IBC cells which are costly are very much efficient with 20-22 percent efficiency. However, passivation type cells are very efficient with a good efficiency rate above 20 percent.
Cell efficiency determines the ratio of solar cell’s output energy to input the energy from a renewable source. Hence, it is important to consider cell efficiency while purchasing solar panels.
Efficient solar panels
There are many types of solar panels. However, it is important to understand the equation between the solar cell and solar panels efficiency.
The popular types of solar cells are Monocrystalline solar panels, Polycrystalline solar panels and Thin Film solar panels. Let’s understand about these three types of panels:
- Monocrystalline Solar Panels:
These solar panels are manufactured from the best quality silicon. They are also known as single-crystalline cells. This type of silicon crystal is grown in a careful complex process and then a long rod is produced. The rod is then divided into wafers that make up solar cells.
These solar panels have the best efficiency rate as compared to other solar panels. The current efficiency of Monocrystalline solar panels is about 22 to 27 percent. This panel can be recognized by its dark color and rounded edge.
- Polycrystalline Solar Panels:
This type of solar panel is less efficient than Monocrystalline solar cells. They are also known as multi-crystalline cells.
In this case, the silicon is grown out of the crystal blocks. These blocks are later divided into wafers. Then the solar cells are produced. The average efficiency of Polycrystalline solar panels is around 15 to 22 percent. These solar panels are blue colored with a square cut.
- Thin Film Solar Panels:
This solar panel is manufactured by covering an underlying substance of metal, glass or plastic with photovoltaic material. These solar panels are light weighted and are flexible. They also degrade faster than the other two types of solar panels.
Thin film solar panels do not consume much time in the production process. Thus, the efficiency is low as compared to the other two types of solar panels. Their efficiency is about 15 to 22 percent.
There are many types of solar panels. However, it is your decision to choose the right type based on your requirements and budget.
How to choose the right solar panels?
Is the variety, efficiency, functioning of solar panels making it difficult for you to make the right choice? Now, your difficulty comes to an end. We have curated the best factors you need to consider while purchasing solar panels. So, let’s have a look at it:
- Efficiency:
This is an important factor to consider while purchasing solar panels. Without efficiency, solar panels will not function properly. It is also a matter of your investment, so you need to consider efficiency carefully.
The higher the efficiency the better your solar panel will work. When the efficiency is higher, you will receive more watts for the electricity on the basis of panels square meter.
The best part is solar panels with higher efficiency require less space. So, you can enjoy better output without consuming much space. This is amazing, isn’t it?
- Cost of solar panel:
Another important factor to consider is the cost of solar panels. The cost can also decide a solar panel’s efficiency over time. It is better to consider panels of good quality and from a reputed company.
You also need to calculate the energy per watt. Your solar panel contractor will guide you on this. Just compare the price and efficiency of modules and select the best one according to your requirement.
- Consider the quality, guarantee, and warranty:
You can’t judge a solar panel with its quote or just by the talks of the salesperson. So, what else can be done to judge the quality of solar panels?
Well, you can learn the efficiency of solar panels through customer reviews. This is one of the effective ways to understand the working of the residential and commercial solar system.
You should read the customer reviews to get an idea about the working of various solar panels. Another way to understand solar panels is to compare the prices and specifications and features with its table. You can check out the charts and tables of various companies and then compare the efficiency, specification, price, etc.
Another important factor is the warranty of the item. The warranty can also give you an understanding of the quality and standard of solar panels. On average, the warranty is between 10 to 12 years and even more. Compare the warranty for better understanding.
When you are checking the warranty, you also need to check the company’s history. Choose a company that has a good experience and history. Moreover, examine the way they tackle problems and solve your queries.
After the warranty check, you need to consider what all the guarantees are granted by the company. Considering all such factors can give a better return on your investment and also value for your money.
- Specifications of solar panels:
Every solar panel has different specifications based on technical attributes. However, such specifications are difficult to understand. But your solar panel contractor can explain to you the difference between each specification. Some of the obvious specifications are:
- Power tolerance
- Voltage rating
- Original manufacturer
- Aesthetic value:
The overall look of the solar system is essential. However, it is not only about the look, you should also consider efficiency and other factors. For example, thin-film solar panels look good but the efficiency rate is low. Moreover, they consume a lot of space.
As the answer to the question is solar energy efficient is clear similarly you need to get a clear understanding of the aesthetic value of the solar system.
No doubt the aesthetic value of solar panels is important but you also need to consider the efficiency.
As the solar panels are mounted in a noticeable place. The position is mostly your roof. Hence, to make your home look good, a subtle and smart solar panel with good efficiency and aesthetic value is the right choice.
Break-even of solar panels
It is crucial to know about the break-even of your solar panels. Calculating the break-even point is essential to get an idea about your returns.
It’s especially important for homemakers to calculate and predict the amount. You are investing in something that will eventually pay you back. The payback amount is based on the saved electricity and timeline.
However, the break-even differs on various conditions. Even the cost may vary between different states. This also depends on how you maintain your solar panels. Considering all the factors, you can expect a return on your investment after 7 or 7.5 years.
Helps to save money
Your annual power bill may be in thousands. Moreover, the average expenditure of power bills is above 3,000 dollars. That’s quite a huge amount, isn’t it?
However, with solar panel’s efficiency over time, you can reduce such costs. Once you install solar panels such unwanted costs can be eliminated. With solar panels, there is a limit in your bill. They also help you save in the long run because it is a renewable source of energy. And the renewable source of energy does not get exhausted.
The installation of solar panels also helps to sell your property faster. Moreover, solar panels can increase your property value.
People understand the value of solar panels, hence, people consider buying a property with solar panels. Moreover, it also eliminates the problem of installing a solar panel as it is already installed and ready to use.
Solar panels also protect your roof from harsh weather conditions and also protect from dust and debris. During the summer seasons, panels protect your roof from harsh sun rays. Thus, you will not feel extremely hot. The panels will absorb the heat to generate electricity.
Eliminates transmission loss and helps to get off the grid
Whether a residential or commercial solar system, solar panel installation can benefit you in all aspects. With non-renewable sources like natural gas and coal being costly, solar energy being the natural source can prove to be beneficial.
Investing in the solar system can help you get off the grid by rescuing yourself from high power bills. You can enjoy natural resources at a cost-effective price.
The electricity efficiency is also improved with solar panels. This is due to the shorter time to transit electricity as it receives direct energy from the sun and is transmitted to the solar panels. Thus, the time duration is less. Hence the electricity efficiency is improved. Moreover, the solar system is durable so there is no service interruption.
Do solar panels help the environment?
Renewable source of energy is clean and pure since it is a natural source. They are beneficial for the environment as well as our health. They also eliminate our dependence on non-renewable energy sources like coal and fossil fuels. Such non-renewable sources pollute our environment as well as have serious effects on our health.
When such non-renewable sources are used to produce electricity they emit harmful gases. This can have a serious impact on the environment resulting in global warming, air pollution, drought, flood etc. Moreover, fossil fuels are costly and exhaustible resources. Hence, solar energy is beneficial in all aspects.
Natural sources have always proven to be beneficial. They also contribute to improving public health. While non-renewable energy sources contaminate the water and are responsible for air pollution. You should consider replacing non-renewable energy sources with renewable energy for better health conditions and environmental benefits.
Moreover, in the production of fossil fuels, a lot of water is wasted. On the other hand, solar energy is efficient enough to produce energy without using water. So, solar energy can also contribute to save water and keep water resources pollution-free.
The solar system works excellently during a heatwave or any other extreme condition. While non-renewable sources use excessive water to cool down in such conditions. Electricity generation from non- renewable sources is at risk during heat waves and other conditions.
So, in short, the solar system contribution to the environment is high and more beneficial than non-renewable sources. This also hints us to make more use of renewable sources like solar energy.
Bottom line
Solar energy is efficient enough to meet all the energy requirements. It has been proven that if we make proper use of the solar system, we can replace all non-renewable sources such as natural gas, fossil fuels, coal and oil. Thus, solar power alone is enough to meet our energy requirements.
The solar panel’s efficiency over time increases while helping us to get pure and natural energy with no adverse effects. Today, the majority of households are adopting solar energy due to its efficiency and returns on investment.
Over the next few decades, you can expect the solar system to dominate every household. Be it an urban or semi-urban area people are opting to install solar panels to save electricity, add value to their home and gain on their investment.
So, solar panels definitely are efficient enough for your commercial and residential use.
With so many benefits related to solar panels, you should definitely think about investing in solar panels. Moreover, the investment will give you returns so it is a good idea to invest your money in solar panels. So, don’t think much, invest in solar panels today as they are efficient enough to meet residential and commercial needs.