The recent surge in the usage of solar power can be attributed to different factors. One important reason is an increasing rate of investment within the sector. The solar industry has experienced an annual growth rate of 33% in the last decade alone!
Moreover, major power outages and dwindling resources have pushed people toward solar power in the recent decade. What drives this solar power? The answer is solar panels!
Solar panels are the foundation of the solar power industry. Solar panels can be classified under four main categories, namely Polycrystalline Solar Panels, Monocrystalline Solar Panels, PERC panels, and thin-film solar panels.
Opting for the best solar power company to get your solar panels from is a decision you will thank yourself for in the future. Faulty panels or installments can lead to higher maintenance costs, lesser efficiency, and reduced lifespans of the solar panels you invest in today.
The Popularity of Solar Power
If you are reading this article, chances are you are thinking of opting for renewable solar energy. If you are wondering about the percentage of people shifting to solar power, here are some facts that may help.
· Texas gets 234 sunny days in a year. For Solar Photovoltaics, this means more potential for generating electricity using the sun’s rays.
· In the last decade, the cost incurred from electricity produced through solar panels has taken a major dip of around 89%.
· In the first half of 2020, Texas reported having installed solar panels that could produce more than 4000 MW of electricity. It is slowly moving towards a major reliance on solar power.
· Employment through solar energy is at an all-time rise. According to the Solar Foundation, 14,000 workers are employed by the solar power industry in Texas.
What is Solar Power
Before jumping into the different kinds of solar panels, it is important to note some facts about solar power.
1. Solar power is energy that is generated through photovoltaic panels.
2. These panels concentrate radiation received from sunlight to generate electricity that is then used or stored in batteries.
3. Solar power is a renewable form of energy. It is sustainable as it does not depend on materials that deplete over time.
The Different Kinds of Solar Panels
Browse through our helpful guide on the types of solar panels to figure out which one is the best fit for you.
Monocrystalline Solar Panels
These, as the name suggests, consist of single-crystal panels and are easily identifiable due to their jet-black color. This color is a result of the material they are made of, which is pure silicon.
This pure silicon is cut into different wafers, eventually resulting in a long-lasting, efficient panel.
Pros
These panels are long-lasting due to the silicon they are made of. They also take up the least amount of space.
Cons
They are probably one of the most expensive panels from the lot. This is because the silicon used to produce them can be quite costly.
Polycrystalline Solar Panels
Unlike Monocrystalline Solar Panels, these are made of multiple silicon crystals. Different pieces of silicon are exposed to high temperatures till they melt. This liquid is then molded into a square shape to produce the final product.
Pros
They do not cost as much as Monocrystalline panels. This is because wastage is minimized. Most of the silicon is used in production.
Cons
They are much less efficient. This is because low-quality silicon is used, which reduces its resilience against heat.
Passivated Emitter and Rear Cell (PERC) Solar Panels
These are a much more efficient version of the first type. They involve the usage of a layer with the cell, which leads to more radiation being absorbed in less time. This is made possible through the emitted light being reflected into the cell.
Pros
Like Monocrystalline panels, these are great for small spaces. They are also efficient, which means that you save on electricity with every watt that is consumed.
Cons
A higher initial cost is involved. However, this can be sidestepped if one argues for the resultant low cost of maintenance and low energy wastage.
Thin-Film Solar Panels
These panels are known for their thin layers that are flexible in nature. They are easy to install as they do not require the presence of a frame. Moreover, they come in all shapes and sizes.
Pros
They are suitable for specific space and size requirements.
Cons
They are not as efficient as the other types. This is because they do not make use of the typical silicon that the other panels employ.
Final Thoughts
Many of the different kinds of solar panels available in the market are enough to satisfy your solar power needs. However, the one you choose to go for is entirely up to you. Types of panels vary depending on the space you have in mind and the amount of money you are willing to spend.
Solar panels are a big investment. Much thought and research should go into opting for a type. However, consulting a company that knows its panels can help you get the job done in less time.
The Time to Invest is Now
Solar Connect can fulfill all your solar panel needs. Solar Connect is known for its customer service and dependable work among the top solar power companies in the USA. From start to installation, it is all you need to begin your journey towards renewable energy consumption.
If you are looking for solar panels, and are living in the Texas area, visit their office or reach out to them via email.
PHONE: (888) 528-4101
EMAIL: Info@SolarConnect.Energy