What are solar panels

In this article we will talk about the devices that are used to generate electrical energy from solar rays, solar panels, but what are solar panels?

What are solar panels

Solar panels are  generally confused with solar systems  , but they work differently. Unlike  solar systems  , which are used   to produce hot water,  photovoltaic panels  capture energy from the sun and convert it into electricity.

The electricity generated by  photovoltaic panels  is most often used to power  household appliances and equipment  . The most common photovoltaic system is  a grid connected system. This means that at night, when  the solar panels are  not working, you can use the electricity that is returned to the grid during the day.

The second type of  solar panel  system is a standalone system that is not connected to the grid. In that case, you can add  batteries  to the system to have electricity when it gets dark. This system can be really convenient in remote areas where there is no alternative to other sources of electricity. Today, thousands of people power their homes and businesses with  photovoltaic panels  .

Next, you will learn how the panels work, the benefits of using them, and the necessary maintenance.

How do photovoltaic panels work?

Solar panels  consist of small solar cells that are connected to each other. Photovoltaic cells  are made of semiconductor material, silicon being the most widely used material for this purpose. Cells  are usually very small, but when combined into solar panels, they can be very efficient. When the sun’s rays hit cells, an electric field is created. The stronger the sun, the more  electricity  is produced. However,  photovoltaic cells  do not need direct sunlight to function and can still produce electricity on a cloudy day.

Photovoltaic panels  are available in a variety of shapes and sizes and can be easily mounted on an existing roof.

Benefits provided by photovoltaic panels

         Using  photovoltaic panels  as a source of electricity can be really beneficial. After purchasing  solar panels  and assuming the installation cost, you can start saving money with reduced electricity costs. In addition to these savings, there is also the opportunity to  earn money  from  solar farms  . The law in Poland allows the construction of micro-installations and the production of electricity from renewable sources for natural persons for their own needs and for sale and production in small facilities by entrepreneurs engaged in non-agricultural commercial activities. Another advantage of panels photovoltaic is its respect for the environment. Using them helps reduce our carbon footprint.

Photovoltaic panels and maintenance

Solar panels  require little  maintenance  ; they just need to be kept  clean  and not under the shade of trees. If dust or snow becomes a problem, clean it with warm water and a brush or high-pressure hose. If you don’t feel like doing it yourself, you can always contact a window cleaning company to get the job done.

Solar panels can last up to 35 years or more, but the  inverter  needs to be replaced after ten to fifteen years. However, it is always safest to check with your installer to find out what the specific system maintenance requirements are and what is included in the warranty.

The  energy  Solar  photovoltaic  is an excellent source of renewable energy and there are many reasons to start reaping the benefits. In addition to reducing your carbon footprint, you will also reduce your electricity bills. Also,  solar  panels  are easy to maintain and will last for a long time.

Currently, in Poland, we can observe a boom in  photovoltaic energy,  especially in provinces such as:   Pomorskie, Wielkopolskie, Mazowieckie,  as well as in large cities such as  Warsaw, Krakow  .