Solar Basics
What Is Solar?
While we may understand the basics of solar power, that it is a way to create power from the sun, most of us don’t fully understand the ins and outs of solar power. So how exactly does the sun become energy? Here is a simple explanation.
It all starts with the solar cell, which contains thin layers of semi-conductor material like crystalline silicone or something similar. When light from the sun hits the silicone atoms they begin to vibrate with energy. Eventually they absorb so much energy that individual electrons ‘jump up’ to a higher level and create an electrical current. This electrical current can then be used to power an item, or can be stored for later use with a battery.
There are several components involved with a solar electricity system, and the requirements change depending on what you are using the electricity for, and when. For example, if you are using the solar power to run outdoor lighting you will want to incorporate a photo resister, which will inform the controller board when it is dark so the lights can be turned on.
So what exactly is involved in getting solar power up and running in your home or other location? Check out the following components:
Solar Cell Panel
The technical term for a solar cell panel is “photovoltaic panel”, and it is essentially a bunch of solar cells put together. The cells are interconnected and usually protected with glass on the top and a backing of a durable material like plastic or fiberglass.
The panel is mounted in a sunny location, such as the roof of a home or the top of a camper, and is usually tilted towards the sun. Those who live in the Northern hemisphere will likely have to angle their panel slightly towards the south, particularly in the winter. This will ensure that the panel receives maximum sunlight exposure.
Charge Controller
This component is integrated after the solar panel, and works to provide a one-way street for energy to pass from the panel to the battery. Without a charge controller the current could flow back into the solar panel and cause damage. A blocking diode can be used, with the addition of the charge controller, but it isn’t recommended on its own. A charge controller is far more reliable and you won’t risk as much power loss.
Fuse
For added precaution, a fuse can be inserted between the charge controller and battery on the positive lead wire. If the negative and positive leads ever came into contact with one another your system will short circuit causing irreversible damage to your solar system. Make sure the fuse is rated 120% of the solar panel’s max current.
Battery
If you want to make use of solar energy when the sun has gone down, then you will need a battery, or several batteries to store energy up during the day so it can be made use of. The size and number of batteries will depend on the amount of energy your solar array is creating, and how many hours or days of power you want stored up.
This is solar power in a nutshell, and once you look at the components it doesn’t seem quite so daunting. With a little help you too could soon be living ‘off the grid’ and be enjoying free, clean electricity.
Inverter
Since the energy created by the photovoltaic panel is DC (direct current) it needs to pass through an inverter to be changed to AC (alternating current), the standard for homes and electronics.
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