What solar panel do I need? How to make the right choice

Are you thinking of becoming solar and do not know where to start? Years ago, the use of solar energy seemed an eccentricity. Today things have changed, and we can now consider installing one of these clean energy systems to meet our needs.

But this is not a common issue, and we have many doubts about it. So the question is – what solar panel do I need? After all, how many types are there and which is the one that suits my consumption?

We are clear that this is not an immediate decision. Depending on the energy needs we want to cover, we could be talking about several tens of thousands of dollars, right?

However, as we will see, it’s possible that with enough information, we can enjoy many of the advantages that the sun can offer us. The first thing we should understand is how this technology works and more importantly, how it can be useful for us. So let’s dig in.

How does a solar energy power system work?

First, a photovoltaic surface – a solar panel – harnesses the solar rays, in the form of light energy. Secondly, an inverter transforms that luminous energy into electricity.

The third element of the system could be a battery that stores ready-to-use electrical energy. The battery also allows us to have energy at night, and during bad weather periods.

Does it require light and heat?

No. This is one of the most common myths. The energy that the cell traps is light. In high altitude places, the system is even more efficient because it’s closer to the sun. The heat must be considered when choosing the type of panel that we are going to acquire, for the deterioration that can produce.

For what do I need the energy?

This is probably the first question that we must answer. There are several reasons why you might be thinking about these systems:

• Give energy to remote places
• Savings on the electricity bill
• You worry about the impact on the environment and you want to lower your consumption of coal and oil
• To increase the value of the property
• You want to take advantage of the tax incentives offered by your local government

Remote Energy

In the first case, the problem is that we want to power a station that is far from the main facility: a surveillance post, a water pumping system, a hen house. Conventional electrical installation requires a high investment, and maintenance costs.

Nowadays we can find very good options for obtaining energy at remote points, and it is an excellent decision. The investment to put a power system to that solitary point is going to be much smaller, and the installation time will be shorter as well. You will enjoy continuous energy without increasing your bills.

Go entirely solar

If on the other hand, the idea is to stop using conventional electricity, we have to consider other factors to know the exact solar panel that we need.

What Solar Panel Do I Need

How much energy do I need?

The annual consumption of property is the first thing we should know. You can usually request the information from the company that provides the service. To get an idea, an average house of 3 rooms consumes about 3000 kWh a year. This also depends on which appliances are connected; if, for example, you have an electric stove or air conditioning system, the amount increases

What space do I have available?

Installation of solar panels requires space. Depending on the available space, consider the different types of panels. The higher the efficiency of the system, the smaller the space required, but also the cost of the equipment increases

How much sun does the place receive?

This measure is known as insolation, and it depends on the amount of photons available to convert into electricity. The amount of light in Arizona is not the same as in Colorado. The altitude, the cloudiness, everything influences. In places of low insolation we must consider more efficient technologies, or batteries with better storage

Other issues:

including temperature –there are systems that are less resistant to heat –or the aesthetics of the panels. Remember that in many cases the installation is on the roofs. In addition, pre-installation repairs should be considered, if necessary

What are the types of solar panels?

Almost all are made of silicon. The main difference between one type and another is efficiency, and it depends on both the area and the number of panels you need to generate electricity. Let’s look at the most common ones:

Monocrystalline

It’s the most common technology and also the oldest. Its efficiency is 15-20% leading. It’s the most efficient in space too. You need about 6 to 9 square meters to generate 1kWp. They are also the most durable. On the other hand, it is the most expensive technology among all. Regarding the climate, it works best in warm environments.In high temperatures, its efficiency drops 10-15%. Cloudiness can also affect

Polycrystalline

They are a little less efficient, between 13% and 16% – to generate 1kWp they require about 9smin panels. The weather affects them even more than the previous ones, and in the high temperatures is less efficient. The great advantage it has is its cost, which is lower due toits production technology

Amorphous

You may have already had one of these in your hands, as it is the technology originally used for solar calculators and watches. Nowadays they have advanced in efficiency to be used in big projects: 6-8% needing about 20sm to obtain 1kWp. The good thing about them is that they tolerate extreme heat, but they are hard to find

To conclude

The use of solar energy systems depends entirely on your needs. Ifyou’re about to provide electricity to remote locations, they are an excellent choice. In these cases performing a conventional installation can be very costly, complicated and time consuming. Depending on what you need, you can find various options that allow you to enjoy energy, at affordable pricing.

If on the other hand, you are considering acquiring a large scale solar system, you should consider the different factors that will decide what solar panel you need.

Remember that we are talking about several dollars, and you must have the helping hand of professionals. It’s always a price-value issue, and depending on the conditions and the available budget, you will find the option that best suits your needs.