Sun has plenty of energy and the most common way of harnessing that energy is through photovoltaic panels. When people think of renewable energy, the first image that comes to mind is solar panels on the rooftop. Solar panel efficiency is a measurement of how much of the sun’s energy is converted into useful electricity.
Do you live in a city like Chicago? Interested in solar panel installation in your homes? Do solar panels make sense for Chicago homes?
How can you directly benefit from an installation of solar energy systems? The efficiency of the panel you choose is an important factor. Efficiency in solar panels is simply the measurements of energy output in a given surface area. The more efficient the panel is, the less space it will take up on your roof.
The Efficiency of Solar Panels:
Solar panels are usually able to process 11-15% of solar energy. Researchers are continuously trying to improve the efficiency of photovoltaic technology.
Scientists have achieved a record of 40% by using multi-junction cells. These cells capture different frequencies of light on the electromagnetic spectrum.
If you have limited space, a more efficient solar panel will be the right choice or vice versa. Higher efficient solar panels will cost more but they will meet the energy requirements. Overall cost and kilowatt production may help you in making the right choice for your home.
Factors Affecting Solar Panel Efficiency:
Panel efficiency depends on a variety of factors such as proper installation and assessment of the structure discussed as follows;
- Panel design and construction: The amount of energy harnessed depends on the angle through which light is passing. Also on the reflectivity of the glass. That is why most solar panel designs have a protective glass.
- Positioning and angle of panel installation: Proper installation is significant to capture maximum sunlight. The angle of the panel and the amount of light hitting are also two important factors in maximizing efficiency.
- The Pitch of Roof: The slope of the roof will impact the light hitting the roof throughout the day.
- Temperature: Temperature can affect the overall output of the solar cells. Higher temperature lowers efficiency and reduces output. Select the right panel that is best suited to your climate.
- Shade: Even a small shadow can reduce the overall output energy production. It is ideal to install panels in a way that no shadow falls on any of them.
A solar pathfinder is a useful tool in determining the optimal location for solar production. Solar panels in a home require a little maintenance. Dust and dirt will affect efficiency if not taken care of.
Designs of Solar Panels:
Each panel is connected to a system that provides electricity to the inverter. In return, the inverter provides the power to run the household appliances. Following are the solar panels designs for home:
- Monocrystalline Solar Panel. The most efficient and best type of solar panels available today. Because of the high silicon content, they are more expensive. These square-shaped panels are ideal for roof-mounted solar electric systems.
- Polycrystalline Solar Panels. Multi-layered silicon panels often cheaper than their counterparts. They implement a design which reduces the efficiency loss. This makes them ideal for larger installations because they are less costly. These panels are more resistant to heat.
- Building Integrated Photovoltaic Panels. Appearance is the most important aspect of the building. These panels help preserve the aesthetic feel of the historic buildings. They may be able to keep the traditional look of the roofing. Types of these panels are more costly and less efficient than the others.
- String Ribbon Silicon Panels. Uses less silicon in the cell manufacturing process than any other crystalline type with 12-14% efficiency.
- Amorphous Solar Panels. New photovoltaic technology that consists of thin films of amorphous silicon photovoltaic cells that are laminated to metal roofing. Less efficient, lighter in size and more flexible, Extremely versatile when it comes to cost. Degrade faster than standard solar systems.
- CIGS Panels. The CIGS technology, or Copper Indium Gallium di- Selenide, uses no silicon at all. It can be made into panels with or without discrete cells. Some companies have confirmed the module efficiency of up to 16%.
Final Word:
Solar energy may not be ideal for all parts of the world but wherever there is plenty of sunlight, solar panels are the most viable option. A recent analysis Redfin says Chicago has plenty of solar potentials. Do a complete survey of options in solar panels Chicago has to offer. There is massive competition in the solar power market. This can lead to less expensive and more efficient solar panel modules that can be installed in your homes.
King Builder and Services offer one of the best solar panels in the city of Chicago. Contact us and we will give you a free consultation on whether solar panels are worth the investment or not.
