Solar energy is made possible by the photovoltaic effect, a process that converts light (photons) to electricity (voltage). First identified in 1954, this discovery led scientists to create photovoltaic (PV) cells using silicon, which capture sunlight and make solar-generated electricity possible.
Solar cells were initially used to power space satellites as well as smaller items like calculators and watches. But refinements in the technology brought about individual solar PV systems used to power homes and businesses. Utility companies also began using PV technology for large power stations.
Solar energy is made possible by the photovoltaic effect, a process that converts light (photons) to electricity (voltage). First identified in 1954, this discovery led scientists to create photovoltaic (PV) cells using silicon, which capture sunlight and make solar-generated electricity possible.
Solar cells were initially used to power space satellites as well as smaller items like calculators and watches. But refinements in the technology brought about individual solar PV systems used to power homes and businesses. Utility companies also began using PV technology for large power stations.
Typically, solar cells are combined into modules (panels) that hold about 60-96 cells. Ten to twenty solar panels will power an average home. This combination of many panels into one system is known as a solar array.
Panels are mounted at a fixed angle facing south. More advanced systems may feature panels mounted on a tracking device that follows the sun, increasing the efficiency of the system. The inverter is the heart of the system and converts the solar energy into clean usable power for your home.
Business and industry can take advantage of the same solar technology used in homes. But they also may use additional applications that would not be practical at the residential level.
Maximizing the revenue per square foot of commercial space is the key to profits. Now building owners can look to their roof. Solar energy can convert large unused roof space in commercial and industrial sites into revenue generating assets.
Barn roofs, houses, unfarmed land — all can be sites for solar energy systems that serve as income generation opportunities for farmers.
Solar energy systems can be installed in many capacities across various government offices, garages, parks, schools and more.
Neep to repair your current system or want to upgrade to a larger system? Contact us today to setup a consultation.
