While solar panels are an everyday sight, some people still don’t quite understand what they are and how they work. Let Colorado solar panel installers tell you some interesting facts about solar panels:
Solar panels comprise numerous photovoltaic cells, typically made from crystalline silicon. These cells convert sunlight into electricity through the photovoltaic effect. When sunlight strikes the cells, it excites electrons within the material, generating direct current (DC) electricity flow.
The key solar panel’s components include solar cells, glass, encapsulate, a back sheet, and a frame.
Three main types of crystalline silicon cells are used in solar panels: monocrystalline, polycrystalline, and thin-film.
The top surface of a solar panel is covered with tempered glass. This glass serves as a shield and protects cells from rain, dust, and debris while also allowing sunlight to pass through. Heating and rapid cooling temper the glass, making it stronger and more impact-resistant.
The back sheet is the layer that seals the solar cells' backside, protecting them from moisture and other environmental elements. Back sheets are typically made of polymers such as Polyethylene terephthalate (PET), Polyvinyl fluoride (PVF), Polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), and Polyamide (PA).
The solar panel frame provides structural support and protection to the entire assembly. Frames are typically made from aluminum due to their lightweight, corrosion resistance, and strength. The frame holds all the components together and provides a mounting structure for installation on rooftops or ground-mounted systems.
An inverter converts DC into alternating current (AC), the electricity our homes use. It also maximizes the output of a solar system, monitors the production, and interacts with the grid.
Net metering – With a grid-tie solar system, the grid becomes your battery. You can pull energy from the grid when panels don’t produce enough or pump extras into it. It’s called net metering.
If you’re considering solar panels for your home, hiring professional Colorado solar panel installers is important. Installing solar panels is a complex process, and if not done correctly, it can damage your equipment and void your warranty.
The Solar Revolution has the experience and expertise to install your solar energy system correctly and safely. Contact us.
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