Solar System Design And Installation
The installation of solar panels is becoming common every day. In the United States, 2012 proved to be the strongest year as it saw the most installation of solar panels. According to various industries operating in the solar energy sector, around 2,800 MV worth of installations have already taken place. If you are one of those homeowners wishing to install solar panels, then you must consider many factors before opting for solar power.
What is a Solar Energy System?
The solar system design and installation of solar energy consists of a photovoltaic module (PV module) or solar panel which is made of many solar cells; a typical PV module contains 6 by 10 solar cells. Hence, there are 60 solar cells in a PV module, but this number varies from manufacturer to manufacturer. A solar cell is made of special materials like wafer-based crystalline silicon or thin-film made from silicon or cadmium telluride.
A solar cell produces DC (direct current) and direct voltage with power ranging from 100 to 365 Watts, using the light energy acquired from the sun. The electrical connections are made either in parallel or series, depending upon the required amount of current or voltage respectively. The wires are made from silver, copper, or transition metal, which is non-magnetic, but conductive.
Solar panels are connected to each other to form solar arrays due to their limited power producing capabilities. A complete photovoltaic system may contain the following components:
• Solar array
• Electricity meter
• AC isolator
• Fuse box
• Solar inverter
• Battery
• Charge controller
• Generation meter
• DC isolator
• Cabling
• Mounting
• Tracking system
Factors to Consider
• Availability of Sunlight: Solar system design and installation only works on the roof or in areas where there is sufficient sunlight. In addition, it must also face the right direction, particularly towards the south. Furthermore, the solar panel must be kept away from shades, trees, chimneys, and any obstructions that prevent it from getting an appropriate amount of sunlight.
• Storage Capacity: Almost all solar panels have some storage capacity. Solar system design and installation enables you to receive uninterrupted power even when it is cloudy or in case of no sunlight. The storage capacity of the solar panel stores the maximum amount of light inside to provide you energy when there is little to no sunlight. Consequently, you must deduce how much storage capacity a solar panel has.
How to Install a Solar Panel?
Before you go about installing your solar panels, you will need to consult with a professional building inspector; they will inform you whether your roof is structurally sound or not, and if it can withstand the weight of the solar arrays without caving in.
Since the weight of the solar panels is used during the installation process, your installers should keep the materials being utilized in check. This is done to ensure the correct material is used to repair the roof, if any repairs are required.
Solar system design and installation requires a separate cabinet or nook which can be used to store the battery along with the electrical inverters and BOS equipment that are a part of it. The BOS or balance of system equipment is crucial for the integration of the solar modules in your home’s electrical system.