Did you know that the solar power technology is expected to cover 80% of the total global renewable energy production between 2024 and 2030? The main reason of such increased demand of the technology is its price reduction. Following the simple theory of economics – price drop has increased its demand in the global market.
Thinking of installing solar modules in home or commercial facility but don’t have much knowledge about it? Here we will introduce you functions of solar modules, solar charge controllers (Solar Ladekontroller) and other important parts involved in the solar power system.
Let’s start with understanding solar modules and their types.
Solar Module and Its Types
It is a larger unit of interconnected solar panels which works collectively in generating power. Naturally the collective output of a solar module is higher than a single solar panel. You can easily increase the number of solar panels in the module as power demand increases.
Installing solar modules is also easy as you can install the panel in a single unit. You can also save time for simplified wiring and installation process.
But what are the different types of solar modules that you can install? Primarily there are three types of solar modules – Monocrystalline solar modules, Polycrystalline solar modules and Thin-film solar modules.
Monocrystalline Solar Modules
It is the highest quality solar module that is made of single and highly-pure silicone crystals. Due to their highly pure silicone, monocrystalline solar modules can achieve more than 20% efficiency. These panels are also durable with expected lifespan of about 25 to 40 years.
Polycrystalline Solar Modules
This type of solar modules are getting increasingly popular in the market. Polycrystalline solar modules are considered to be cost-effective and 15-17% efficient. To manufacture polycrystalline solar panels, fragmented silicones are melted together and cooled down to form solid mass. The solid mass of silicone is the main ingredient of the panel that creates a blue color.
The cost-effective option among different solar modules can last more than 20 to 30 years.
Thin-film Solar Modules
The solar panel can be manufactured using indium gallium selenide, cadmium telluride and amphorous silicon. It uses an advanced technology that makes the solar module flexible and lightweight. The solar module type may be cost-efficient bit its efficiency ranges from 7% to 18%. It also lasts lower than the other types, it may have a lifespan of about 10 and 20 years.
Now, let’s discuss batteries in a solar-powered system
Batteries
Solar energy system requires a method to store energy generated through solar panels. Grid-tie and off-grid are the two types of systems that helps hold energy.
In grid tie system, you don’t require a set of batteries. The energy your solar panel produce, powers your home and the excess energy is transferred to the electricity grid. Sometimes, a third-party will purchase this excess energy and add a bill credit for electricity. So, whenever you need external power, you can use from the credit.
On the contrary, in off-grid system you need battery to store the energy you produce through the solar panels. A converter converts the DC to AC and stores it in batteries.
Once you figure out which solar power system you should choose, select solar charge controllers (Solar Ladekontroller) to protect your batteries from overcharging.
Solar Charge Controller
It is such a device that controls the voltage from the panels to the batteries. Solar charge controller (Solar Ladekontroller) is a key element in protecting the battery health and solar panels. The controller regulates voltage to battery to protect it from overcharging. Besides, it also stops current flowing backwards towards the panel with no sunlight. So, a solar charger controller not only protects the battery but also protects the solar panels.
Inverters
Solar panels produce DC power but electrical appliances in our homes runs on AC power. An inverter takes the energy produced by the solar panels and converts them into AC power.
Benefits and Challenges of Installing Solar Modules
Regardless of solar modules, mono or polycrystalline (Solarmodul Mono Oder Polykristallin), they all help you reduce energy costs at homes or commercial facilities. With renewable energy options, you can reduce your carbon footprint and improve environmental sustainability.
However, you may be worried of high initial cost of installation, but its durability and long lifespan helps to adjust the cost. Over the time, you will see that you spend less than the total cost of energy compared to traditional energy sources.
Apart from the initial cost of installation, weather condition also plays a role in its functioning. If you live in an area with longer days of rain with little to no sun rays or you see snowfalls very often, using solar panels could be challenging for you.
Final thoughts
Solar power systems can be beneficial for you if you can invest up-front in the system. Solar panels, batteries, inverter, and charger controllers are necessary to install an efficient solar power system. Besides, installing solar power systems can be a source of additional income. You can sell your excess power to the utility suppliers. An electricity credit will be added to your electricity bill. You can use the bill credit in your time of need.
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