Numerous businesses these days are taking interest in Solar panels. This is obvious because new and latest means of energy are the need of the hour. There are a lot of innovations within this system. First of all, the material is something that adds value to the solar system of energy. It is made up of photovoltaic cells. These cells are highly significant as they convert sunlight into maximum energy.
Now, a question arises whether they convert all of the energy or not. Here, one thing is certain: there has not been any solar panel yet that could convert all of the sunlight into useful energy. There is a solution for that too and it is present in the form of efficiency. This parameter is helpful as it provides a better idea regarding the percentage of energy that will be converted into functional energy.
Talking about the trend of solar cell efficiency in previous years we come to know that in the past 5 years, the percentage has increased from 15%- 20%. But one thing should be kept in mind: different types of solar panels have their own criteria for efficiency. Therefore, before purchasing solar panels this thing should greatly be considered.
What’s in this Article
Kinds of solar cells
There are many types of solar cells but the most widely used solar cells are of three types. These are the following.
- Monocrystalline
A single-cell crystal that is made up of silicon
- Polycrystalline
Multi cells crystal comprised of silicon
- Thin-filmed
Thin sheets that are created by substances like amorphous silicon, gallium, copper, and cadmium.
The table below shows us the rate of efficiency as well as the price ranges of solar cells.
| Solar cell type | Rate of efficiency | Overall cost |
|---|---|---|
| Monocrystalline | 20% | Expensive |
| Polycrystalline | 15% | Moderate |
| Thin-Filmed | 10% | Affordable |
How to make your solar cells work efficiently?
Different types of solar panels have their own mode of working. Due to the different types, it is certain that solar panels cannot provide similar output and efficiency. But there are three methods that can help to improve both of these factors. These techniques are utilizing Solar concentrators, making use of Solar mirrors, and optimization by the angle of panels. Now, let us have a discussion about these processes.
Solar concentrators
- Works by lens called “Fresnel Lens”. It is used to concentrate light onto the solar cell
- The solar cells for such concentrators are crafted on the basis of the concentration level of the lens
- Use of this methodology increases the efficiency up to 40%
Solar mirrors
- This technology is under the framework of research for the future
- Researchers in America and India have strived to add mirrors adjacent to solar panels
- For regions where there is excessive heat then this technology is not effective but in colder regions, it will be a blessing
- According to IEEE’s Journal of Photovoltaics this technology has found to be useful in solar farms
- With this technology we can obtain to about 30% of energy production
Optimization of the panel’s angle
- Generally the solar panel should face the sun perpendicular and follows an accurate angle
- It also depends upon regional preferences. For instance, if you are in the Northern region then the angle should be the south and vice versa for a Southern region
- There are many strategies to estimate the angle but the most proficient is using the tilt angle technique. For this, the +150 latitude of the location is set for winter, and for summer it is -150.
- To achieve better efficiency tilt angles can be changed four times a year
- But if you keep a better analysis regarding the sun’s movement then you can gain better output with energy
What are the tips to increase solar panel efficiency?
Avoiding Shade
The working mechanism of solar panels involves sunlight. Without it, they cannot generate useful energy. To maintain better performance these should be prevented from the shade. Shade harms the output, so to avoid issues with energy production these panels must be installed in areas where there is no impact of shade.
Facing Sun
Solar panels need natural light as a necessary element. It can never work without getting proper sunlight. To achieve higher outputs of energy these should be set up right towards the angle facing the sun.
Cleaning
Equipment of panels is stationary and not moving. It does not need high maintenance. But, it does require proper cleaning once in a while. This step is essential as it can disrupt the output. Therefore, to get valuable energy output this credential should be followed.
Leverage Rebates
Although solar technology is the future and it is good for the environment too! But not everybody can afford it. Nothing to be worried about as there is a solution for it. The government offers plenty of offers, rebates, discounts, and installation schemes to make it easy for the public.
Utilizing the monitoring system
This era is all about the latest means and innovations. It is a similar case to solar technology. Now, an individual can easily monitor the output levels and expenditure of energy. On the basis of this statement, the monitoring system should be used extensively.
Get an expert
Without proper installation, the solar panels cannot attain maximum sunlight. If these are unable to do so then you cannot achieve massive outputs of energy. So, to avoid this issue it is better to get the services of an expert.
Conclusion
The concluding statement highlights the beneficial aspects of solar panels. The overall discussion makes us clear that solar technology is the need of the hour. Especially the illustration of types highlighting the latest technology. Moreover, these are extremely important for the environment as they supply pollution-free energy production. So, on the basis of this widespread information, we can say with confidence that solar panels are in fact beneficial for the future.