Solar and Wind Power

Discover the crucial facts about solar power systems before going off grid!

Solar power systems are rapidly growing in popularity all over the world, including every parts of the USA. Thus, more and more people are gradually getting involved in the working of these systems. Every person, whatever might be his/her extent of association with this, are affected by the manner in which the systems function. However, we need to know how exactly these systems function and the way in which they can trap sunrays, and convert it into different usable forms of energy. It is also of essence to know whether the solar power systems can function in the absence of sunlight. The following discourse is aimed at addressing all these issues.

The rays of the sun comprises of photons. These photons are trapped by the silicon wafers of the solar power systems and converted into DC electrical current. Once this DC power is changed into usable forms of 120 volt AC electrical power, this renewable current source can be directly plugged on to an electrical grid, or the electrical setup of a building. However, the various intricate hazards as also their advantages and disadvantages are not known by most and this can be a problem. Thus, when a person chooses one particular company for the installation of the system at his/her home or office, (s)he must be cautious and be aware of all relevant data. Ideally, the past records of the company, as also the quality of work rendered before should be looked into.

There are certain specific factors that need to be discussed separately to get a hang of the working of the systems. These factors include the add-on features of the system that is grid-tied, the primary parts of the setup, monitoring the performance over the web, the main causes of success and the proper way to run and preserve the solar energy system.

Solar power systems with grid-tied facilities: For generating a continuous supply of power throughout the day, grid-tied solar power systems are considered to be ideal. These systems are also relatively cheap as well. One of the undesirable features of a normal solar power system is that, while the systems can easily generate power at all times during the day, they stop working as soon as the sun goes down. However the grid-tied solar power systems can store the extra electricity generated in the grid, so that it could be easily retrieved and utilized at night. Excess electricity that is produced during the day time can also be sold off for money. This in fact, helps in offsetting the cost of the system. In the absence of these grids, battery backups would have been needed, and that would have incurred much greater expenses.

Chief components of solar power systems: At the core of the solar power systems are the solar or photovoltaic cells. Generally, a ‘module’ is created by assembling several of these cells. Once some of these modules are attached together, we can create a solar panel. The panel then needs to be installed at such sites that receive abundant sunlight during most parts of the day, such as on the rooftop. Even those who are not experts have frequently seen these solar panels, which are rather prominent anyway. Hence, the panels can be said to be the point of introduction of people to solar power systems.

There are other important components as well. A system that is complete is generally provided with an inverter that has the capability of transforming DC electric power into 120 volt usable AC current (with all the cycles that are necessary). Suitable and required systems of wiring networks that keep the separate components attached are also provided. Racks are provided that set up the systems on the roof, while other fixing elements and clamps of non-conductors keep the panel attached properly. The system can operate as desired only if all the above components are present.

Monitoring via the internet: Web browsers can be used to monitor the performance and efficiency of the systems. Even portable gadgets can be used for this purpose.

Main factors of success – Most established suppliers of solar energy units are aware of these factors. The success factors include monitoring the climate to facilitate the process of electricity generation, and determining the direction in which, if the system is placed, it would yield the best results. As a case in point, if there is fog in the morning at San Francisco, chances are that the best yields of electric power would be available in the middle of the afternoon. TVs and computers that have been powered but are kept plugged in, and any other such ‘phantom loads’ need also be eliminated to ensure that the system operates at best efficiency. If all the above factors are closely examined, and all requisite measures are adopted, the system is more likely to operate in an effective manner.

Operating and properly maintaining the system: Solar power systems should ideally be cleansed once every 12 months. In case batteries are present, they also need to be replaced after a gap of 5 to 10 years.

There are several benefits to be enjoyed once solar power systems are installed. You should ideally consult a manual that offers detailed instructions on the procedure of installing the system, the best spot where it should be placed, as well as wiring the system. Such a guide would also let you know how you can get the components at reduced prices, the batteries for free, and the safety measures as well. All these instructions would help you greatly in setting up efficiently your home solar power system.