Solar panel: (1)
Solar energy is the ultimate mean of the electricity because sunlight is a renewable or continuous source of energy. The solar panel consists of photo-voltaic cells placed in a framework that helps in the installation of solar plates.
How solar panel works?
The solar panel works on the principle of the photovoltaic effect in which there are lots of solar cells made of silicon and boron that tends to give negative and positive charges respectively. When solar plates absorb the sun rays, these rays put pressure on the last orbit electron in the charged field of the n-type and p-type junction. The free electrons move in the direction of the current that produces electricity.
Cost plan for Solar panels: (2)
The initial cost of solar panels is relatively high as compared to its maintenance. Generally installation cost ranges from $17,760 to $23,828 for 10 Kilowatt (kW) panels. The average rate per watt cost you only for $2.40 to $3.22.
The size of the panel is a key role to decide the cost of the solar panel as mentioned the cost per watt electricity. The other factor involved in deciding the cost is the capacity of generating the electricity, higher the size and capacity higher will be the equipment and labor cost on the solar panel installation.
Average solar panel costs according to sizes:
- The cost of a 2 kW solar panel is $4,159 after the tax credits
- Similarly, the cost of 3 kW is $6238
- The cost per kW increases with a constant rate of up to 20 kW
- And the high unit of the solar panel is available in 20 kW for $51,985
The installation of a solar panel is highly appreciated by the local government for 26 percent on every panel because of its productivity without creating pollution or degradation of any natural source.
Solar panel prices in the U.S States:
The prices are different for different states according to the weather conditions and customer utility. For example, in warm states like Florida and Arizona electricity consumption is high due to air conditioners, etc. So, the general idea for pricing of solar installation reduces the per-watt cost.
- Arizona cost per watt is $2.34 and solar panel installation cost for 10 kW is $21,500-$25,300.
- In California per watt, charges are about $2.81 and installation expenses from $24,100-$32,100.
These cost variations occur in every state according to the charges of electricity production and consumption rate.
The installation process of Solar panels: (3)
The components used in the installation are solar panels or plates connected with a mounting system in which a solar inverter is installed and all the system is maintained and controlled via the computer. Solar panels absorb the light and convert it into DC electricity and with the help of an inverter the DC is converted into AC that will ultimately use for generating electricity. The computer continuously checks the performance and efficiency of the panels. There is another option with a solar panel that is battery backups that help in rainy seasons and overcast conditions. For the reasons, extra batteries should be handy.
The easy and most preferable place for the installation of a solar panel is the roof due to the availability of sunlight around the clock although it can be set on the ground as well, you have to make sure no obstacle blocks the access of sunlight on solar plates.
Steps of installation:
- Scaffolding setting: All the installation depends upon the first step that is choosing erect scaffolding that helps to provide safety from beginning till the end of the complete installation process.
- Installing the solar panel Mounts: After erect scaffolding, a solar mount setting is required that gives support to the solar panels as a base unit. The mounting structure should be at an angle between 18-36 degrees for getting maximum exposure to sunlight.
- Solar panel installation: the solar panel is then installed on the mount structures and to avoid any misshapen, make sure to tighten the nuts and bolts for stability.
- Solar panel Wiring: Electric wiring is the next step to make solar panels functional. MC4 connectors are the most preferred choice because of the reliability and adaptability of solar plates with MC4 connectors. Before wiring, plug off all the household appliances and supply.
- Inverter installation: Inverter is so much important as blood in veins therefore, it should be connected to the system to make solar panel operational. It should set near the main unit and must be kept in a cooler place for better efficiency.
- Connecting solar inverter to solar Battery: it is very useful to connect the batteries as well because the backup is essential in case of any problem with plates or weather conditions. It is also helpful in lowering the storage cost of solar plates.
- Link the inverted with consumer unit: For generating the electricity this step is essential and monitoring should be done through the generation meter. And to check the performance and consumption rate you should use the computer as well.
- Switch the power and enjoy the natural source of energy.
Maintenance of Solar Panel:
The solar panel has less maintenance cost due to the unmovable parts of solar plates. The solar plates only required cleanliness after some time to absorb a handsome amount of sunlight. Some precautions before cleaning the panels are:
- Consult the solar panel installer before cleaning the plates yourself because manufacturers could cancel the warranty if any damage is done during cleaning. The installer is not responsible for that.
- You should not throw cold water on the solar plates especially when the plates are hot it may cause damage to the plates.
- You can get the services from the installer as well
- Solar plates should be examined after four to 6 years after the installation.
Advantages of Solar panels:
Some of the advantages of solar panels are as follows:
- Pollution-free without greenhouse gases emissions
- It reduces the demand for non-renewable energy sources such as foreign oil.
- Return on investment is the same as the utility bills paid.
- No maintenance for 30 years.
- It is safe than ordinary electricity.
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