In the last blog, you read about what Net Zero is and how to achieve it. At the end of the last blog, there was a small note about solar panels. In this article, you will find out exactly how they work and why you might want them on your house!
The main job of a solar panel is to convert the energy of the sun into electricity. Solar panels consist of a few materials including a metal frame, glass casing, silicon cells, and various wiring to allow currents to flow from the silicon cells. A protective glass layer covers the silicon cells. There is also a protective back sheet to protect the house as well as prevent humidity inside the panel. This is a very important aspect because if a solar panel gets too hot it will lead to a decrease in performance. Finally, there is an anti-reflective coating to maximize sunlight absorption and exposure.
Solar panels work by converting light into electricity to generate heat and energy. Solar panels are efficient because the silicon, which has conductive properties, allows the sunlight to be converted into electricity. Light interacting with silicon sets electrons in motion to initiate an electronic current. This is known as the photovoltaic effect. This then generates direct current energy and converts it into alternating current energy. The alternating current energy (AC) flows through the electrical panel and gets appropriately distributed throughout the home with a properly sized system. The result is low to no electric costs!
There are many advantages to installing solar panels on your home or business. Some of the advantages are: it is a renewable energy source, low carbon footprint, long life span, increase in property value, and high savings on electric bills. As an added bonus, a few state programs still offer solar rebates and you may be able to receive a 30% federal tax credit. In Wisconsin, WE Energies will buy leftover electricity from the energy produced by solar panels on your home. As utility bill costs continue to increase, your investment becomes even more valuable.
Solar Panels are now more affordable than ever, the initial costs continue to decrease as more panel producers enter the market. Through the years, solar panel efficiencies have increased, so less panels are needed to produce the same amount of electricity. By making the initial investment, you and your family will benefit by living in an extremely comfortable environment with no energy bills.