Clean Diesel

You may have heard about solar energy as a futuristic goal. However, solar panels, which produce electricity from the sun, are becoming increasingly efficient. These panels are also very versatile, as they can either be connected to the general power grid or they can be used independently. Independent use is called being “off grid, ” and is usually achieved by using solar power along with batteries or wind turbines. The creators of all this electricity are solar power cells.

Solar cells make up solar panels. They are arranged together in a line on a panel, like rows of soldiers in formation. They can also be referred to as “modules,” which are cells connected together as one unit. Cells each create electrical charge, and together provide an increasingly efficient form of energy supply.

These “building blocks” of solar power are all photovoltaic cells. This means that they use semiconductors to create electricity. Semiconductors absorb the light that falls on the cells as energy. The energy frees electrons. This electron movement creates a current, which can be drawn out of the cells by using metal as a conductor.

There are different types of these cells. The most commonly used type of material is silicon.

The blue panels that are most commonly seen are made up of polysilicon cells. These absorb more energy because they are made of a thicker material. However, these cells are also fragile, and must remain in a flat shape. They therefore are not suitable for certain uses.

Thin film solar panels are flexible, unlike polysilicon cells. However, they do not absorb as much energy because they are so thin. If layers of cells are placed together they can absorb more light.

Solar energy is an efficient, sustainable form of energy, which means that it is eco-friendly. However, it does have some faults. The most major one is that it needs sunlight to work, but not all places have constant sunlight.

You can build your own solar cells, install them in your home, and lower your electric bill by as least 50 percent. Free yourself from the electric grid, join the green revolution and learn how to build a home solar powered system. VisitSolar Power For Your Home for more information and to download plans for building solar panels.

Everyone wants to do their bit in looking after the environment and creating a sustainable future. Installing solar panels for your home is a great step towards achieving this, as solar energy is totally renewable and pollution-free. With manufacturing and technological advances, and the help of government rebates, they are also an increasingly viable option financially.

How do they work?

Most electricity plants use turbines, powered either by fossil fuels, air or in some cases by water. Solar panels, which are also called photovoltaic systems, are different. They rely completely on energy to the sun, which is converted instantly into electrical energy. This is achieved by a reaction between the sunlight and the silicon crystals that are in the panels.

Can I convert all my power usage to solar power?

The technology involved in creating solar power is still quite new. Most panels can only convert about thirty per cent of the sunlight hitting them into usable energy. This means that even with a large number of panels, an average household probably won’t be able to make the switch from grid power to being completely dependent on solar energy. However, they can reduce your electricity bill significantly, and maybe even earn you a little cash.

The grid-tie system:

Depending on your situation, you might be able to cut off your connection to the grid supply, and just use a battery when the solar panels aren’t keeping up. The more popular option, however, is to stay hooked up to the main power supply. If you’re generating a little extra juice, that will flow out to join the main power supply. Best of all, you’ll get paid for that power at the retail price!

By the same token, if a cloudy day or high electricity usage at night means that you run out of electricity, power from the grid will flow back in to keep things running in your home. Any electricity coming back into your home is deducted from that power you’ve already given. If you’re careful with your electricity usage, you may find that the amount you give pays for the amount you take, and gives you a little bit of profit!

Tips for lowering your electricity usage:

The way these panels work out best for you is if you’re using less power. Chuck out energy guzzling appliances and get some A++ rated ones instead, replace all your old halogen light bulbs with LED lights, get a water-saving shower head, and fill the empty spaces in your walls and roof with insulation. You’ll be saving power in no time!

You can build your own solar panels and lower your electric bill by as least 50 percent. Why not join the green revolution and learn how to build homemade solar cells for your home. VisitHomemade Solar Panels for more information and to download plans for building solar panels.