Solar energy is one of the fastest growing forms of renewable energy in the world. Why is it so popular? Well it’s pretty exciting to think that after the equipment is installed that the creation of future energy is going to be free.
The creation of solar is quite simple. Technology uses the power of the sun in multiple ways to either create direct energy or convert that energy to create another form of energy. There are several ways solar can be harvested: solar thermal, solar mirrors or the most common and widely available, solar photovoltaic. Solar photovoltaic, also known as solar PV, is the technology that uses a system of cells that are used to make panels which are then mounted in a variety of ways to collect sunshine. For the purpose of this article the discussion of PV will be the focus.
So how does it work?
Just like in biology, it all starts with cells. Solar cells are the guts of any panel. The panels are comprised of a collection of cells depending on the size and/or use. The cells are painted with some type of metal conductor, like silver, which takes the energy created off the cell and then feeds it into the wires from groupings of panels into an inverter. Since most of the world’s grids operate on Alternating Current (AC) and solar panels create a Direct Current (DC) the inverter serves as a box to change the DC into AC electricity where it can now be used in the building where the energy was created or fed back into the “Grid”. The grid is the system used to move electricity throughout an area.
It seems so simple
So why aren’t more people doing it? Well in many places pricing until recently has been a big factor but in the last 18 to 24 months the cost of solar has plummeted, at least the price of the panels has. Depending on where you live and the orientation of your roof there is absolutely no reason you shouldn’t be considering solar. Many companies now offer lease plans that allow you to put solar on your roof with little to zero cost and a fixed rate to pay back the cost of the system. The lease locks in a flat rate for all of your electricity costs or most of it for years. It really depends on what the size of the utility bill is vs. the size of array that you can install.
How do I start?
When considering a solar installation keep in mind that having full Southern exposure to the sun is critical to maximizing the collection of the sun. So first look at how the sun falls on your property. Secondly, make sure if you want solar mounted on your roof that the roof is in good condition. Next, find a certified installer. In North America, the designation you want to find is NABCEP (North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners). This means the installer has passed a rigorous testing program to assure that they know their business.
Yes, you could use a local electrical company but a NABCEP installer means they have actually installed systems and understand the issues like orientation, slope of the panel installation and the specifics to the inverter installation. It also means they understand the particular permitting issues in your local area and how to work with the local utility.
Benefits and Bonuses
Besides the reduced electrical bills you will be facing in the coming years, solar provides additional benefits. When solar is mounted on your rooftop, it provides an additional level of insulation which keeps your building cooler. It extends the life of your roof because the roof is no longer taking the full heat of the sun. Also, on home installations, panels are mounted a couple of inches off your roof, this results in a mini air flow system which also reduces the heat pouring into your roof and creates additional cooling. Since cooling is many people’s major expense on their bill, having solar becomes part of the energy efficiency strategies for the building it resides on.
Solar is a 30 year energy solution that can be installed in as little as 3 months. So what are you waiting for?
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