A solar panel is an array of solar cells that use photovoltaic technology to convert direct sunlight into direct current (DC) electricity.
Another use of solar power is to heat water.
These days the use of solar power panels to generate electricity is gaining in popularity. This is especially so for businesses. However, the residential market is also warming up to solar.
Although the cost for a photovoltaic PV system will depend on the size of the system you intend to install, your electricity rate, the amount of kilowatt hours you expect to generate, and the state/local rebates/tax credits that may be available, the formulas for calculating the returns are pretty much the same.
Although at present solar power is more expensive that electricity the promise of concentrator technology is set to change this.
The simplest explanation of solar power is that it’s a form of energy derived form the sun that is then converted into heat or electricity.
Solar energy is first of all a very useful source of alternative energy, as it can provide electricity during power failures.
In the past the Greeks and the Egyptians have been known to harness the power of the sun to heat whatever they liked to by focusing its radiation.
Generator systems do not depend on sunlight. They do, however, depend on fuel. If storms or some other disaster hinders one from replenishing the fuel supply, generators also become useless.
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.
© 2012 Householders Guide
