SOLAR PANELS, COMPONENTS AND INSTALLATION: EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW
In times of ever increasing need to switch from traditional energy sources to renewable ones, it quite works in our favour, that the Earth receives enough solar energy during a hour and a half, needed to power the entire world’s energy needs for an entire year. While sun’s energy reaches all parts of the Earth year round, there are certain areas where this energy is more in quantum and solar technologies can hence capture it and turn it into useful forms of energy.
There are two main types of solar energy technologies
- Photovoltaics (PV)
- Concentrating solar-thermal power (CSP)
Photovoltaics (PV) are fairly common and utilized in solar panels. The photons absorbed by PV cells present in the solar panels, initiate an electric current. These technologies used both direct and scattered sunlight to create electricity.
Concentrating solar-thermal power (CSP) systems use mirror to concentrate energy from the sun onto receivers and further convert it into heat. This can be used to generate electricity or stored for future use. These systems are commonly used in large power plants.
Solar energy generated using these PVs and CSPs need to now be integrated into homes, businesses and existing electrical grids. In a well balanced grid configuration, a solar panel system generates and stores power during the day which can be used at night. In an off grid solar application, a battery bank, charge controller and inverters are necessary components of the system. Direct current (DC) electricity is sent to the battery banks through charge controllers. The inverter then draws the power from the battery bank and converts the DC to AC i.e alternating current. Alternating current is what powers most of the appliances and operations in homes, businesses, commercial buildings, traffic controls, vehicles and much more.
Solar panel installation process
The most common location for installation of solar panels is the roof, however, they can also be mounted on the ground. The aim is for the panels to get the maximum sunlight and no objects blocking access to the sun.
- Firstly, scaffolding is erected to ensure safety of the whole installation process
- Now, solar panel mounting system is set up. This will become the support of the solar panels. The structure is required to be tilted at an angle between 18 to 36 degrees in order ensure maximum sunlight exposure.
- Next, solar panels need to be installed on the mounted structure.
- Next step is to install the electrical wiring. MC4 connectors are generally used as they are best suited for all types of solar panels. It is now important to shut off the current electricity supply.
- Once wired, the solar inverter is now connected to the system. It is typically installed neat the main panel and should be kept in a cool place, preferably in shade (if outdoors), or in the garage, store/utility rooms (if indoors) with proper ventilation.
- Further, the solar inverter is now to be connected to the solar battery. The solar battery stores energy for you during cloudy days and can Las lower the solar battery storage system costs during installation.
- Next, the inverter is to be connected to the consumer kit to generate electric. A generation meter is also connected in order to monitor the amount of electricity the solar panels are actually producing.
- The final step is to switch on the power and test your newly installed solar panel system. Now your installation process is complete.
The whole process of solar panel evaluation, designing, installation, operation and maintenance can be quite overwhelming. We, at SPTIPL understand your concerns and therefore, are equipped to offer you the necessary solutions as per your needs. With a team of world class professionals and industry veterans, we guide you every step of the way, enabling you to make smart decisions for your household and business needs. Reach us out to discuss your ideas and get an estimate on your project. Solar power in India is the next big thing and we are the drivers of change.