Solar radiant energy can be converted directly to electricity. This is accomplished using photovoltaic (PV) cells. Solar cells have the advantage over other electricity generating equipment of being virtually maintenance free. They have been used in unmanned remote stations including space stations. Although PV sells are expensive for the electricity produce, there are many advantages over fueled engines and fuel powered cells.
Solar cells operate similar to batteries. Each cell produces a +-volt depending on the material of construction. The cells are assembled in modules of usable voltage such as 12 volts. Except for the simplest systems, solar electric systems usually require batteries for storage and an inverter to convert the electricity to alternating current (AC) and the required electrical voltage, amperage and frequency. Direct current (DC) motors and devices may be substituted to eliminate the additional cost of inverter systems.
Another disadvantage of solar electric (PV) is, if the sun isn’t shining or it is overcast, there is little or no electricity generated. Expensive battery storage or another power source is required to operate electric powered devices during this time. A low cost, high capacity method of storing electricity would revolutionize solar PV and the adaptation of other electrical innovations such as electric cars.
Creating solar electric, via Photvoltaic cells, or solar panels, has until fairly recently been an obscure idea for the average person, considering that the minimal cost of having a home solar power system installed costs at least $27,000. Many, many people just don’t have it, especially now in this economy and time of uncertainty.
However, now you can make solar panels for homes, and use solar heating just as efficiently as large companies, or people that have disposable funds.
By: Drew Stevenson on August 16, 2009
at 3:26 pm