Home Solar Power

Solar energy is an excellent source that has the potential to greatly reduce environmental pollution. Unfortunately, it’s recognized as an “alternative energy” since it isn’t an energy source used by a majority of the population. One of the main reasons is that it’s still quite costly to manufacture. Right now, calculators and decorative outdoor lights are a couple of the most popular home solar powered gadgets. The question remains, how do solar panels work? How does setting up a small panel, directed towards the sun, turn the sunlight into the electricity that keeps those pretty, bluish bright lights lighting up the walkway all night long?

The basic concept of how solar panels work is that they’re made from special materials that are capable of harnessing the sun’s energy and converting it into electricity. Electricity that powers electronic devices that we use in our everyday lives. But there’s a little more to it than that.

An important, budding technology involving solar energy that’s being used today is photovoltaic (PV) electricity. This is the use of unique materials that convert solar energy into electricity, and this electricity is either stored through the use of DC batteries or it can be used instantly.

These materials have been recently developed and they release electrons when prompted by sunlight. Another name for a photovoltaic panel is a “direct energy conversion device”. All of these effects take place on an atomic level without any moving parts.

Historically, only space age technology used photovoltaic panels. Space stations and satellites used them because they were a reliable source for continuous solar energy conversion. The extra bonus that using them in outer space has is that the sun’s radiation is at least 50% stronger than it is here on Earth.

People who live more than a mile from an electrical grid are better candidates for home solar power use especially those in residential homes. It’s significantly more expensive to install power transmission cables than it is to install a solar panel kit. If you fit this criterion then solar energy to power your home is a smart way to go.

But still, the looming question is “how do solar panels work?” Well, solar energy is made up of two kinds of radiation. One is called “beam radiation”. Beam radiation can be visualized by imagining direct sunlight on your skin while at the beach on a clear, sunny day. These cloud-free days make a major contribution to solar energy being gathered by solar panels, but the solar panels need to be strategically placed to harness the most sunshine possible.

The other kind of radiation from the sun is called “diffuse radiation”. This shouldn’t be relied on for the sole energy to be absorbed by your solar panels. This is what we feel on an overcast, cloudy day or if chilling out under a shady tree. To rely on this type of energy from the sun as your main source of sunlight is far from practical.

So, with this being understood, a bright and sunny location is key for solar panels to work effectively. Beam radiation is very important and most of Western America fits this bill. However, northern climates and coastal states pose a bit of a challenge since typical weather there consists of a lot of clouds and rainy days. Those regions aren’t prime candidates for 100% solar reliance.

Solar panels can be set-up to meet your specific needs. 12 volt, 24 volt, and 48 volt DC systems are the most common. The life expectancy of 12 volt solar panels is well over 20 years and they fall in the range of 12-14% efficiency.

Solar power is still “alternative energy”, and part of that is due to its high cost to produce. They’re so expensive because they are made of supremely pure silicon semi-conductor materials. New materials are being explored and they’re geared toward lowering production costs, making solar energy more readily available to the general public. Cadmium Telluride based solar panels are one of the new technologies being explored, and if these are successful materials then solar panels should become more affordable for the average citizen. This is great news for the environment as more and more people convert to solar energy, the atmosphere can begin to heal.

Soon enough, solar energy won’t be considered “alternative” anymore. You want to consider certain things if you’re planning on converting to home solar power before making a decision, but it’s a step in the right direction for the environment. The benefits outweigh the cost when it comes to our planet’s health. Energy independence has become a common goal for many, and if you want to use solar as just a back up plan, then the choice is practically already made for you. The planet will benefit immensely once solar energy is accessible to everyone.

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