A solar panel is an array of solar cells that use photovoltaic technology to convert direct sunlight into direct current (DC) electricity.
There two forms of solar power: Thermal solar power is where the heat of the sun is used to heat water to drive a turbine to produce electricity. Photovoltaic solar power is when electricity is produced directly from the sun without any moving parts.
Solar power is very dependable in locations that have bright sunlight 300+ days of the year. In areas with less sunlight, or during periods of cloudiness and storm, solar power is less dependable.
Moreover when your solar power system generates power in excess of your own requirements, you may supply the excess power to the utility grid (and get paid for it). This system obviously will be costlier but has its own advantages.
Photovoltaic solar power is set to be one of the most promising renewable energy sources in the world.
Solar panels are often warranted to maintain 80% of their efficiency for up to 25 years. Other parts will need to be replaced sooner, but if all goes well there should be no maintenance costs at all for the first five years.
The main problem with terrestrial solar power is that it only provides power during the daytime.
Solar power is a great option for heating water and providing electricity in tropical areas where most days are sunny.
Generally it's worth investigating the economic viability of installing a solar hot water system if you have an electric water heater with utility rates of at least 5 cents per kilowatt hour and have tax credits or rebates available. (It may even be worth changing out a gas-powered water heater if your costs are at least $8/million BTU).
It’s essential to use renewable energy such as solar power if we are to reduce greenhouse gases before it is too late.