Helena Solar panels are a smart investment that will reduce energy costs and add to the value of your home. They can also provide backup power during a power outage.
The best way to save money on a solar installation is to pay cash, which will lead to a shorter payback period. If that’s not possible, a loan is the next best option.
There are a few types of solar panels available. These panels convert sunlight into electricity to power homes, commercial buildings and other electrical devices. The type of solar panel you choose will depend on your energy needs, the amount of space you have and your budget. The most common type of solar panel is a monocrystalline solar cell, which starts out as a single silicon crystal that’s cut into wafers. These panels are more efficient and have longer lifespans than other types of solar panels.
Polycrystalline solar panels are a less expensive alternative to monocrystalline solar cells. They’re created by placing a silicon crystal into a tank of molten silicon, which then melts and cools. The resulting wafers are then sliced into sheets that are assembled to form the solar panel. These solar panels have a marbled appearance that’s made more noticeable by the sunlight reflecting off the individual crystal fragments. While they’re cheaper than monocrystalline solar panels, they’re also slightly less efficient.
Thin-film solar panels have a much lower profile than other solar panel types, which makes them easier to install in unconventional spaces. These panels are applied with ultra-thin layers of semiconductor materials such as cadmium telluride, amorphous silicon or copper indium gallium selenide on glass or metal. This process allows electrons to flow freely across the surface of the solar panel, which generates electric current. Thin-film solar panels tend to have the lowest efficiency, but they are also the least expensive of all the commercially available solar panel types.
Solar panel systems are composed of multiple solar cells that produce an AC (alternating current) voltage to power household appliances and other devices. They’re usually connected to an inverter, which converts DC voltage into an AC current. The inverter can be sized to meet your home’s electrical load requirements, and it can also be used to power off-grid applications such as recreational vehicles and boats, remote cabins or cottages, oil and gas flow monitoring, RTU or SCADA equipment, or remote traffic controls. Choosing the right inverter is crucial to maximizing the performance and lifespan of your solar energy system.
Cost
A quality solar panel system is a long-term investment, but the upfront cost is often offset by energy savings and tax incentives. Some homeowners even achieve net-zero energy costs, which makes going solar an attractive financial proposition for many homeowners. The federal ITC is the most important factor in determining the cost of your solar energy system, but your state and electricity provider may also offer other incentives that can lower your overall installation costs.
The type of panels you choose also affects the cost of your system. Monocrystalline panels made from high-purity silicon are considered the most efficient, while polycrystalline and thin-film panels are less expensive but have lower efficiency ratings. The size and orientation of your home can also impact the cost, as larger homes generally require a more expensive solar system.
In addition to the cost of your solar panels, you’ll need to pay for installation and support equipment. These include a racking system, an inverter, and wiring. The racking system is needed to mount your panels to your roof and ensure proper function, while the inverter converts DC power into usable AC energy. The cost of these parts can vary based on the type of roof and racking system chosen, as well as local utility rates.
You should also consider the annual energy usage of your home, which will influence the system size needed and overall installation cost. You can use your utility bills to calculate this figure, but you should account for seasonal fluctuations and any significant changes in your energy consumption. This will help you determine how many panels are needed to meet your needs, and also ensure that you have enough spare capacity for future energy use.
Another factor to consider is the installation cost, which typically accounts for 10-20% of your total solar panel cost. It’s important to use a professional installer for a clean, safe, and reliable installation that meets all local codes and regulations. In addition, a professional will ensure that you receive the appropriate permit and warranty coverage.
The good news is that solar installation costs are declining and have dropped below $US$3 per watt1. These price drops are due to increasing demand for renewable energy as well as lower manufacturing costs. Choosing quality products from reputable brands can increase the performance of your solar system and reduce its overall cost.
Efficiency
The efficiency of solar panels varies by the type of cells, and how they’re configured along the panel. The backsheet color also plays a role. Black backsheets tend to absorb more heat, which reduces efficiency slightly. This is why we recommend choosing a light-colored backsheet, such as blue or green.
Solar cell efficiency is also determined by the type of silicon used to construct them. Monocrystalline cells, like those produced by Qcells, typically offer the highest efficiencies. Their higher purity levels, which translate into less waste, allow them to produce more energy per square foot than polycrystalline solar panels. This is why they are the preferred option for high-end projects.
Despite these advancements, there is still no such thing as a “perfect solar panel.” However, many homeowners can achieve their electricity cost savings goals with standard efficiency solar panels. The biggest reason to opt for higher-efficiency panels is to save more electricity on cloudy days and in the evenings.
When it comes to solar power, there are many myths about its efficiency. Some of these myths have been created by misleading marketing campaigns from solar companies, and others have simply been based on misinformation and inaccurate data.
One common myth is that solar panels perform better in hotter weather. In reality, the optimum temperature for solar panels is 25 degrees Celsius. Higher temperatures will reduce their efficiency, but the difference isn’t noticeable in most homes.
Aside from this, solar panels work well in most conditions. They are able to generate power on both sunny and cloudy days, and they can also operate in the shade with minimal impact.
As with any energy-producing equipment, solar panels do degrade over time. However, this decline is very minimal, and it has been factored into most manufacturer warranties. It is also largely offset by regular maintenance and cleaning.
To get started on your solar journey, book a free consultation with an Enact energy advisor. We will help you determine if your home is eligible to go solar, and explain how to optimize your system for the best results.
Installation
When installing solar panels, it is important to choose a reliable installer with a proven track record and positive customer reviews. You should also take into account the type of roof your house has and your energy consumption to ensure you get the right size system for your home. A qualified installer will also help you through the paperwork and permitting process to get you started. They will help you obtain the necessary permits to build your solar system and connect it to the grid if applicable. They will also inform you of any rebates, financing options, and incentives that may be available to you.
Once the mounting structure is built, it will be angled to maximize sunlight on your roof. The inclination should be optimized based on the sun’s location in your area and a variety of online tools can help you find the best tilt angle for your geographical location. It’s also a good idea to check for any trees or buildings that could block your solar array. Lastly, make sure the panels are free of debris and dust that will decrease their performance.
Depending on your solar installation, you might want to add a battery to the system for backup power during cloudy or rainy weather. A solar storage system will also help you increase your energy savings and save money on electricity costs. Adding a battery will require additional wiring and may incur an extra cost for the inverter.
Once all the wire connections are made, it is time to connect your solar panels. You will need to connect a bare copper grounding wire to the positive and negative terminals of each panel. This will prevent a potential fire hazard caused by lightning strikes.
After you’ve connected your solar panels, it’s a good idea to monitor them regularly using a generation meter or energy monitoring software. This will help you identify any issues that may arise early and maximize the efficiency of your solar system. It’s also a great way to keep tabs on your savings! Remember to clean your solar panels regularly with non-abrasive cleaning products. Using abrasive cleaners can damage the surface of your solar panels and reduce their efficiency.