Years before, solar power is reserved only for the rich. Although the idea of using the sun to generate free power is attractive, it is only by now that more people are getting interested by its potential. But before you get swarmed by the influx of information about it, here is a detailed but not overwhelming information about what solar power is and how solar panels generate energy.
How Much Energy Can The Sun Give?
The sun is a gigantic ball of non-stop energy above us. This energy is palpable on the mix of light and heat that we receive from the sun. When converted, approximately 164 watts of solar power is transmitted on every square meter surface of the Earth.
But this energy is useless unless you have the means to actually use it. There has to be a way to convert the light and heat energy from the sun into a functional form of energy. This is exactly what solar panels do.
What Are Solar Panels?
Basically, a solar panel consists of many solar cells that catch sunlight and transform it into electricity. Both a positive and a negative layer are constructed to create an electric field. Unlike battery cells where chemicals are used to make energy, photons or tiny light particles are utilized to produce an electric current. Solar panel sizes vary according to how much power a device needs.
How Does a Solar Panel System Work?
The uncomplicated process is referred to as the “Photovoltaic Effect” which is why solar cells are also called as PV cells. Once the light rays hit the PV cells, the electrons flow through the electric circuits on the solar panel and generate a direct current (DC) kind of electricity. An inverter is going to be used to convert this DC electricity into AC or alternating current electricity which powers most home and industrial machines.
What Are The Benefits Of Solar Energy?
Using solar energy is more than just having a sustainable form of energy. Its foremost advantage is that this kind of power is renewable and accessible. This means that you will never run out of electricity as long as the sun is shining and your solar panel system is working.
Little maintenance is also required once the solar panels are installed. You just have to make sure that you choose a reputable company who provides solar services because it helps when the provider aids its customers to understand how solar power generation works. They also ensure that everything in the solar panel system installed is in a working order before they leave it to the owners to maintain the panels. This minimizes the need to call for solar repair and maintenance.
The manufacturing of solar panels is continually advancing over time. Experts that are working on this technology always look for means to make the production less expensive but more efficient. This encourages more people to go solar as it will become more and more cost- effective.