Solar Power Systems: REVEALED
Mike Walden
August 07, 2009
Solar power systems are rapidly growing in popularity all over the world, including every parts of the USA. Thus, more and more people are gradually getting involved in the working of these systems. Every person, whatever might be his/her extent of association with this, are affected by the manner in which the systems function. However, we need to know how exactly these systems function and the way in which they can trap sunrays, and convert it into different usable forms of energy. It is also of essence to know whether the solar power systems can function in the absence of sunlight. The following discourse is aimed at addressing all these issues.
The silicon wafers present in the solar power systems are equipped to trap the photons in the rays of the sun. These photons can then be transformed into DC electrical power. Once this DC current is has been converted to 120 volt usable AC electric power, it can be attached to the electrical framework of the building or plugged into the electronic grid systems directly. However, a major disadvantage might be the fact that, not everyone associated with the working of the solar power systems know the merits or demerits or the hazards associated with it. Thus, one needs to be extra careful while choosing the system. Past records of the company and its business history need to be studied.
There are certain issues that need to be studied while selecting a particular solar power system. This include: i). the add-on beneficial features that a grid-tied solar energy system has to offer, ii). the parts of the system, c). keeping a close eye on their functioning, d) the factors that contribute to the success of the system and d) the way of working and the steps to maintain the unit.
A solar power system that is grid-tied: Grid-tied solar energy systems represent an ideal device for generating electricity at all times during the day. These systems are cheaper as well. Solar power systems generally can easily produce electricity as long as sunlight is available during the day, but they stop working at night, and this is hardly desirable. If people opt for grid-tied solar power systems, the energy stored on the grid can be drawn upon to generate electricity at night. Excess electricity can also be sold off in exchange of money and this offsets the cost of electricity generation. If these grid-tied systems are not used, battery backups, that have a much higher price, need to be opted for.
The necessary components of a solar power system: The heart of solar power systems are formed by the photovoltaic, or the solar cells. Several separate photovoltaic cells are taken together to make a single module. A number of such modules are combined to form a solar panel, which then can be placed on the rooftop or any other location where the sunlight is abundant. People even consider these panels to be the only component of the systems, since these panels are rather prominent in nature. Indeed, the presence of these panels makes a person aware that there is a solar power system in the home.
There are other important components as well. A system that is complete is generally provided with an inverter that has the capability of transforming DC electric power into 120 volt usable AC current (with all the cycles that are necessary). Suitable and required systems of wiring networks that keep the separate components attached are also provided. Racks are provided that set up the systems on the roof, while other fixing elements and clamps of non-conductors keep the panel attached properly. The system can operate as desired only if all the above components are present.
Monitoring via the web: This allows people to keep a close eye on the way of working of the solar power systems. This monitoring can be done using different portable gadgets as well. Several web browsers are also used for this purpose.
Main factors of success - Most established suppliers of solar energy units are aware of these factors. The success factors include monitoring the climate to facilitate the process of electricity generation, and determining the direction in which, if the system is placed, it would yield the best results. As a case in point, if there is fog in the morning at San Francisco, chances are that the best yields of electric power would be available in the middle of the afternoon. TVs and computers that have been powered but are kept plugged in, and any other such ´phantom loads´ need also be eliminated to ensure that the system operates at best efficiency. If all the above factors are closely examined, and all requisite measures are adopted, the system is more likely to operate in an effective manner.
Mode of working and maintaining the system - The solar power panels need to be thoroughly cleaned at least once a year. The batteries (if present) used in the system need also be replaced after every 5 to 10 years.
The benefits of solar power become evident as soon as such a system has been set up. However, a prior thorough knowledge regarding the installation procedures, the ideal place where it should be installed, the wiring, as well as the information about the safety measures is required. Users also need to know from where they can get cheap components as well as free batteries from. Once installed properly, solar power systems can indeed be great additions to any home.
This article is based on the book, "Earth 4 Electricity- Renewable Energy Made Easy " by Jim Martin. Jim Martin is a researcher, inventor and home energy consultant who written dozens of home energy related articles and has been featured in ezines and print magazines, as well as on hundreds of websites worldwide.
To Learn More about Jim Martinīs Unique Step By Step Solar and Wind Power System Visit: Earth 4 Electricity.
For further information visit: Solar and Wind Power for Residential
The silicon wafers present in the solar power systems are equipped to trap the photons in the rays of the sun. These photons can then be transformed into DC electrical power. Once this DC current is has been converted to 120 volt usable AC electric power, it can be attached to the electrical framework of the building or plugged into the electronic grid systems directly. However, a major disadvantage might be the fact that, not everyone associated with the working of the solar power systems know the merits or demerits or the hazards associated with it. Thus, one needs to be extra careful while choosing the system. Past records of the company and its business history need to be studied.
There are certain issues that need to be studied while selecting a particular solar power system. This include: i). the add-on beneficial features that a grid-tied solar energy system has to offer, ii). the parts of the system, c). keeping a close eye on their functioning, d) the factors that contribute to the success of the system and d) the way of working and the steps to maintain the unit.
A solar power system that is grid-tied: Grid-tied solar energy systems represent an ideal device for generating electricity at all times during the day. These systems are cheaper as well. Solar power systems generally can easily produce electricity as long as sunlight is available during the day, but they stop working at night, and this is hardly desirable. If people opt for grid-tied solar power systems, the energy stored on the grid can be drawn upon to generate electricity at night. Excess electricity can also be sold off in exchange of money and this offsets the cost of electricity generation. If these grid-tied systems are not used, battery backups, that have a much higher price, need to be opted for.
The necessary components of a solar power system: The heart of solar power systems are formed by the photovoltaic, or the solar cells. Several separate photovoltaic cells are taken together to make a single module. A number of such modules are combined to form a solar panel, which then can be placed on the rooftop or any other location where the sunlight is abundant. People even consider these panels to be the only component of the systems, since these panels are rather prominent in nature. Indeed, the presence of these panels makes a person aware that there is a solar power system in the home.
There are other important components as well. A system that is complete is generally provided with an inverter that has the capability of transforming DC electric power into 120 volt usable AC current (with all the cycles that are necessary). Suitable and required systems of wiring networks that keep the separate components attached are also provided. Racks are provided that set up the systems on the roof, while other fixing elements and clamps of non-conductors keep the panel attached properly. The system can operate as desired only if all the above components are present.
Monitoring via the web: This allows people to keep a close eye on the way of working of the solar power systems. This monitoring can be done using different portable gadgets as well. Several web browsers are also used for this purpose.
Main factors of success - Most established suppliers of solar energy units are aware of these factors. The success factors include monitoring the climate to facilitate the process of electricity generation, and determining the direction in which, if the system is placed, it would yield the best results. As a case in point, if there is fog in the morning at San Francisco, chances are that the best yields of electric power would be available in the middle of the afternoon. TVs and computers that have been powered but are kept plugged in, and any other such ´phantom loads´ need also be eliminated to ensure that the system operates at best efficiency. If all the above factors are closely examined, and all requisite measures are adopted, the system is more likely to operate in an effective manner.
Mode of working and maintaining the system - The solar power panels need to be thoroughly cleaned at least once a year. The batteries (if present) used in the system need also be replaced after every 5 to 10 years.
The benefits of solar power become evident as soon as such a system has been set up. However, a prior thorough knowledge regarding the installation procedures, the ideal place where it should be installed, the wiring, as well as the information about the safety measures is required. Users also need to know from where they can get cheap components as well as free batteries from. Once installed properly, solar power systems can indeed be great additions to any home.
This article is based on the book, "Earth 4 Electricity- Renewable Energy Made Easy " by Jim Martin. Jim Martin is a researcher, inventor and home energy consultant who written dozens of home energy related articles and has been featured in ezines and print magazines, as well as on hundreds of websites worldwide.
To Learn More about Jim Martinīs Unique Step By Step Solar and Wind Power System Visit: Earth 4 Electricity.
For further information visit: Solar and Wind Power for Residential
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