The use of photovoltaic (PV) panels is the cornerstone for powering a solar lifestyle. Here's how the process works: - First, the photovoltaic panels -- or array -- collect sunlight and converts it into solar energy.
- The energy is then stored in special batteries inside the home before being sent to a power inverter that converts the energy from DC to AC.
- Once the power has been converted, a charge controller monitors and regulates the entire system.
PV Panel Manufacturing And what makes PV panels work? Here's a brief overview: - First, the manufacturer molds treated raw silicon into blocks that are slide into thin, square wafers.
- The wafers have impurities on both top and bottom surfaces, that causes the silicon to become energized when penetrated by sunlight. The interval electrical field created in turn creates electricity that can be used immediately or stored for later usage.
- The wafers are mounted and connected together in a grid sandwiched between tempered glass panels and forged into a panel than can withstand winds of 120 mph -- as well as almost any weather condition.
- Finally, wiring is added to the back of the panels.
Homeowners considering the purchase of PV panels should consider their overall needs before investing. For example: deciding whether battery storage capability is desired or how much of the home will be powered by the solar system. Many manufacturers offer complete packages that make the installation easier and more economical -- and now, even offer plyable panels that can be rolled directly over a rooftop. For more information on solar power, including product specifications and installation instructions, see Resources below.
RESOURCES :
Solar Living Source Book: The Complete Guide to Renewable Energy Technologies and Sustainable Living
Model: 0916571041
Author: John Schaeffer (Editor), Doug Pratt (Editor)
(Real Goods Solar Living Sourcebook, 11th Ed)
Real Goods
Website: www.realgoods.com
The Solar Electric House: Energy for the Environmentally-Responsive, Energy-Independent Home
ISBN: 0963738321
Author: Steven J. Strong, William G. Scheller
Chelsea Green Publiishing Company
Solar Decathlon
U.S. Department of Energy
Website: www.solardecathlon.org
Solar Buildings
Covers zero-energy building and other solar technologies.
Solar Buildings
Website: www.eere.energy.gov/buildings/
U.S. Department of Energy - Solar Energy
U.S. Department of Energy - Solar Energy
Website: www1.eere.energy.gov/solar
National Renewable Energy Laboratory
National Renewable Energy Laboratory
Website: www.nrel.gov
Photovoltaic Panel Installation Guide (BP Solar MST Integra-Mount)
Model: Solar Panel SX-110
BP Solar (Integra-Mount Photovoltaic Panels)
Website: www.bpsolar.com
Solar Panels and Hardware (BP)
Model: SX-110
BP Solar (Solar Panels and Hardware)
Website: www.bpsolar.com
Solar Inverter, Converters and Charge Controllers (Xantrex)
SW Series Solar Installation Guides, Battery Specs for model 2580NC and PV Series
Xantrex
Website: www.xantrex.com
Solar Power Products, Packages and Installation (Atlantic Solar)
Including installation and operation of Sunmate generators.
Atlantic Solar Products
Phone: 410-686-2500
Solar System Design and Installation
Chesapeake Wind & Solar
Website: www.cwsenergy.com
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