Solar Panels For Homes

Among the most exciting and popular technologies in the growing field of green energy is photovoltaics. Photovoltaic energy, commonly known as solar power, employs solar cells, often several tied together into photovoltaic arrays, that absorb light from the sun and convert it directly into DC electricity. Originally, practical applications of solar power were limited. Small devices, such as emergency phones and calculators that used only sparse amounts of energy were powerable by small solar panels. The next major use was in powering satellites in orbit and some spacecraft, where the Earth’s atmosphere didn’t decrease available sunlight. In the last several years, however, the demand for cleaner sources of energy has risen dramatically, and the production and installation of photovoltaic equipment has risen in turn. It has essentially become the fastest growing energy technology in the world.

The primary advantage of photovoltaic energy is it’s ability to produce electricity completely pollutant-free. Basically, these systems collect energy freely, as sunlight is always present during the day and completely renewable. The newly created electricity can then be used for any number of applications. Batteries can be charged, and equipment can be powered directly. In most cases these days, photovoltaic systems are used generate power while tied in to the commercial power grid. This requires an inverter that converts the electricity from DC to AC, which is what we use in our homes. This energy can then be used to offset power expenses, and can even be sold back to the commercial electricity providers at high rates.

One problem in employing photovoltaic arrays is the initial cost of equipment and installation. These starting costs may be prohibitive in many cases, especially for residential applications. Demand for photovoltaic equipment is always increasing, however, and costs are expected to continue to decrease steadily in the coming years. In addition, there are several government programs in place to help offset startup costs. For example, in the US, a tax credit is available that covers 30% of equipment costs. Since 2006, several investors have begun to offer free installation in return for extended contracts to purchase electricity at fixed prices, often below current available electricity rates.

In the coming years, demand for photovoltaic systems will only increase, lowering equipment costs, and speeding advances in the technology. The efficiency of these systems is quickly and steadily improving. The energy conversion ratio is currently, at maximum, around 20%, but many advances are already being made in this area, with research labs reaching efficiencies of up to 42%! Whatever it’s use, as an investment or as a practical means of generating electricity, photovoltaic energy will continue to be an exciting field. Solar power: not just for calculators anymore.

Edmund E. Taylor has researched and writes on a number of topics including solar energy, the green movement, renewable resources and recycling. His background is in teaching and higher education. For more of Edmund’s articles on green energy, please visit PV Power, a supplier of residential and commercial solar power information.

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