1 Aug 2012
Solar Panels Need Sunlight To Produce Solar Energy
Article by J R Chuong
Photovoltaic (PV) solar panel systems need direct access to the sun’s rays for most or all of the day to produce solar energy. The temperature or climate solar panels are in is not a concern, because solar power systems are relatively unaffected by weather. In fact, some PV solar panel modules actually work better in colder weather. Most PV solar energy modules are angled to catch the sun’s rays, so any snow, rain or condensation that collects on the solar panel usually melts quickly. Solar Panels feed off the suns production of energy in a wide light spectrum, but solar panels can harness small portions of that spectrum and convert them to useful photovoltaic solar energy. Solar panels need only a small percentage of the suns solar energy to reach the earth, 1.36 kilowatts per square meter, also known as the solar constant, of solar energy reaches our planet. Close to 70% of this solar energy radiation makes it through our atmosphere on a cloud-free day. The atmosphere we live in is a strong absorber and reduces the solar power that reaches the earth at specific wavelengths. The part of the spectrum used by silicon PV solar panel modules is from 0.3 to 0.6 micrometers, roughly the same wavelengths to which the human eye can detect. The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (www.nrel.gov) data says the large majority of Unites States receives enough sunlight for solar energy. Germany is the worldwide leader in solar installations, yet the US has considerably more solar energy sunlight exposure.
Solar energy systems do not have moving parts, are modular, and are easily expandable. Solar energy systems bring independence and are environmental compatible because solar energy comes by way of the sun, which acts as fuel, is free, and operating a solar energy system causes no noise. Overall, solar energy systems that are well designed and correctly installed entail minimal maintenance and have a long life span. A properly designed and maintained solar energy system will operate for over 25 years. The Photovoltaic solar panel module, with no moving parts, should last even longer. On occasion, a solar energy system will show signs of breaking down after a couple years of solar energy installation, this is a result of improper connections, inadequate wire size, apparatus not rated for dc application, or the controller, inverter, and protection components malfunctioning. Batteries can fail too if they are used in excess, however, most batteries are fully rechargeable and serious problems with a solar energy system are fairly rare if installed by a competent professional. Solar energy is the same as grid power, so you won’t notice that your home is running on solar power.
About the Author
JR Chuong writes for solarinstallerquotes.com. If you have a home and want to upgrade your lifestyle to a more eco-friendly home, consider getting a free solar estimate from a solar panel contractor today.
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