Month: December 2023

We live in an exciting time with respect to electrical power, one in which it has never been easier to break free from mains electricity, and low-frequency AC power in general. A confluence of lower-power appliances and devices using low-voltage external switch-mode supplies, readily available solar panels and electronic modules, and inexpensive high-capacity batteries, means that being your own power provider can be as simple as making an online order. But which parts should you choose? Low Tech Magazine has the answer, in the form of a guide to building…

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In the not-so-distant past, powering a home with solar panels seemed outlandish. The technology was so new that it wasn’t realistic, let alone cost-effective. But now, that reality has changed.  The price of solar panels has fallen dramatically since 2010. They’re coming to neighborhoods near you, and they might be more affordable than you think. That’s good news for the environment, for your wallet and for the power grid.  “The big vision 10 years down the road is that there’ll be solar panels on house after house after house,” said…

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The electricity output of photovoltaic modules depends on the direct sunlight reaching their surface. That’s why solar panel productivity is higher in sunny locations and lower in cloudy weather conditions or in places where excessive shade comes from surrounding buildings. Under identical sunlight and temperature conditions, the energy output of solar panels depends on their efficiency. Let’s discuss the primary factors that determine the amount of electricity generated by solar panels. Efficiency Solar panel efficiency can range from less than 10% to more than 20%. The efficiency rating is simply…

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Yes. Net metering allows you to send excess solar energy to the local grid in exchange for power bill credits, which can help lower your electricity costs. Net metering can also help you save on a solar battery, which can cost upward of $10,000. In other words, the grid performs the role of a solar battery by absorbing excess energy production.

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A few pros of using solar panels include: You can save hundreds of dollars in annual energy bills. You qualify for tax credits, cash rebates and other solar incentives. You generate clean energy to help offset fossil fuel use. If you live in a state with net metering, you can sell your excess solar energy to the local utility company in exchange for billing credits.

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Solar has become drastically more affordable over the past decade, making it an increasingly popular way for homeowners to save money on their energy bills and reduce their carbon footprint. Around 2.7 million houses have solar panels nationwide, but as solar has become more popular, so has the prevalence of solar panel scams and illegitimate companies. To avoid being scammed and potentially losing thousands of dollars on a nonexistent or nonoperational solar system, look out for red flags and always do your research before choosing a solar installer. If you’d…

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Solar panel warranties are important to make sure you get the expected electricity savings over time. For example, if your solar energy system is expected to save at least $1,200 per year, a 25-year warranty means you get $30,000 in guaranteed savings. Solar panel warranties also help you qualify for favorable loan conditions. For example, if your solar panels are covered for 25 years, getting a 15-year loan from a local bank is easier.

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Yes, all solar panels lose efficiency over time due to their normal panel degradation rate. High-quality solar panels with higher efficiency rates will degrade slower than cheaper models with lower efficiency rates. Your solar installer will outline your solar panels’ expected longevity and estimates for their efficiency drops. Your installer may include additional coverage to repair or replace your panels if they drop below a certain output. 

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The average solar panel generates 1.5 kWh of energy each day. Solar panel productivity largely depends on rated wattage and local sunshine conditions. Electricity production will be higher on sunny days with clear skies and lower during cloudy weather or on short winter days. You can estimate solar panel power output by multiplying a panel’s efficiency rating by your location’s peak sunlight hours, which you can find using the Global Solar Atlas. For example, a 400 W panel in an area with 4.3 watt-hours of peak sunlight would generate 1,720…

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Residential solar panels need little maintenance other than regular cleaning, but you must use suitable tools and methods to prevent damage. Generally, photovoltaic (PV) modules have simpler maintenance needs than other power generation systems since they have no moving parts subject to mechanical wear. Here are some recommendations on how to clean solar panels properly: Clean Your Solar Panels at Least Two Times per Year Many solar manufacturers and installation companies, like SunPower and NRG Clean Power, recommend cleaning your PV modules at least twice per year. Depending on site…

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