Solar panels: what they are, how they work and what are the advantages

Are you thinking of installing solar panels, but don’t know many details about this green energy source? In this case you are in the right place, because here you will find the details about it one of the most popular ways to enter the world of renewable energy.

If you care about the environment or are simply looking for an alternative energy source that offers you optimized consumption, solar panels represent the solution of the present, not just the future, being one of the most efficient methods to produce your own electricity.

At the moment you can choose between photovoltaic and thermal panels, depending on their usefulness. In the following lines we will learn more about each of them.

Photovoltaic panels

It works in two simple steps:

1. The photovoltaic panel collects solar radiation and transforms it into electricity
2. Its photovoltaic cells capture energy and convert it into electricity

And depending on the type of cells that compose them, photovoltaic solar panels are divided into different categories:

• Monocrystalline photovoltaic panels
• Polycrystalline photovoltaic panels
• Amorphous photovoltaic panels
• Thin layer photovoltaic panels

Obviously each category has its advantages and disadvantages. Monocrystalline ones are more expensive, but offer superior quality; polycrystalline ones have a lower price, but also a lower performance. If we move towards amorphous photovoltaic panels we must take into account the fact that they are less efficient in intense light conditions and that they perform better when placed in environments with low light conditions. Thin-layer photovoltaic panels are cheaper than those with crystalline solar cells, being ideal for larger surfaces, but produce less energy.

Thermal panels

This model of panels uses the heat of the sun to heat domestic water, but can also be used to heat the house or even the swimming pool. It all happens thanks to the so-called collectors, which are installed most of the time on the roof of the house.

They use flat copper plates, which help capture solar energy, placed on top of fiberglass insulation, encased in an aluminum frame and covered in glass for greater efficiency.

• Thermal panels with vacuum tubes

Concretely, they consist of two concentric borosilicate glass tubes welded together in each collector tube. The sun’s rays fall perpendicularly on them from different angles, so they are more efficient than flat thermal panels, but also easier to maintain.

How do I install a solar panel?

Whether you choose a photovoltaic panel, a thermal panel or even a mix of the two, installation is a long and not at all simple process. Of course we recommend that you call a specialist, but if you want to understand exactly what you need and how the whole process takes place, we have prepared some steps for you:

• Determine the energy consumption of the house, thermal and/or electrical
• Find out about the legal provisions in Romania
• Find out if your home’s roof is compatible with the panel system you want to install
• Take into consideration all the costs associated with installing the panels, but also the amount you will be able to save once the installation is complete. The latter will determine whether it is really profitable to make this investment.
• Turn to the hands of a specialist for the actual installation of the panel system.

If you have finished all the details, the first important decision you need to make is the location of the solar panel. Choosing the right mount for your solar panel is another very important element that you need to consider. Finally, don’t forget to calculate the angle at which the light is best reflected, so that the solar panels operate at maximum capacity.

What are the advantages of using a solar panel?

Obviously the use of this alternative energy requires an initial investment + maintenance costs, time and «energy» on the part of the user. But solar panels bring advantages that you must take into account if you decide to opt for this option:

• The investment will be quickly amortized, the installation will allow you to reduce domestic costs. Solar energy is free and inexhaustible, and this is the great advantage of solar panels: the initial investment is recovered in record time.
• Reliability of solar panels. They have a long lifespan, between 25 and 30 years, and are removable. So, in addition to the fact that they can be mounted both on the roof and in the field, they can be transported when we need them elsewhere
• Contributes to environmental protection. Once the solar panel system has been installed you will no longer use conventional fuel and in this way the degree of pollution will be zero.

As you may have discovered, solar panels are definitely an option to consider when it comes to taking a step into the future by opting for green energy. Find out more details on the Restart Solar solution and ask one of our consultants for information. Would you be willing to make this change and become a producer?

If you are interested to change electricity supplier, do not hesitate to ask for an offer and find out how to save on your bill.