According to a 2021 CBS News report, that roughly 4% of American households use solar panels to power their homes. Experts like the Solar Energy Industries association expect more than 13% of homes to use this energy by 2030.
Many people believe solar panels can be useful tools. Some may even want to pay for a solar installation for their homes.
However, despite the prominence of solar panels and new solar technology, many people still don’t know much about these systems. People have many questions about solar energy and how it works.
If you’re one of those people, you’ve come to the right place! This guide will explore three essential things to know about solar technology. Find the information you need below!
1. How Does Solar Technology Work?
Let’s start with the basics. Most people understand that solar panels use solar energy to generate electricity for your house. The question they ask is, how does this process work?
The key to solar technology is its photovoltaic panels. Solar panels include several solar cells that use semiconductor materials like silicon to absorb sunlight.
The cells then convert this light into an electric current using the photovoltaic process. After this conversion, these panels can send the electric current throughout your home.
Because these panels use sunlight to generate electricity, they’re most efficient in areas with a sunny climate. States like Florida and Arizona often get the best efficiency from their solar panels. However, states like Washington often struggle to produce electricity with solar panels.
2. How Do Solar Panels Work at Night?
People sometimes scoff at solar technology by reminding you that the sun doesn’t always shine. What can solar panels do at night or on overcast days?
Solar panels still operate during these times. At night, solar panels use the reflected sunlight from the moon to generate electricity.
Similarly, solar panels can still absorb sunlight on cloudy days. Have you ever gotten sunburnt on an overcast day? If so, you probably know about ultraviolet light.
Ultraviolet light penetrates through the clouds, allowing solar panels to use them for electricity. However, this system isn’t perfect.
Solar panels function less efficiently with this limited exposure to sunlight. Although they can still use it to generate electricity, they cannot supply the same amount as they could with full sun exposure.
3. How Much Do Solar Panels Cost?
The cost of solar panels has decreased significantly over the last decade. However, the average price in the US remains between $15,000-$25,000.
There are a few ways to mitigate this cost. The federal government offers a 26% tax credit for solar panel installations in 2022. Likewise, many state governments also provide tax credits to reduce this price.
The final factor to consider is what solar company you choose. Various solar companies offer different rates and brands for their installation services. Visit this solar site to learn about the kinds of offers you can find.
Find the Solar Panels You Need
These three facts sum up the essential solar technology information homeowners need. With these in mind, you can research solar panels more efficiently.
So, start by researching your climate to see if it’s hospitable to solar panels. Then, look for the best deals for your future solar installation.
Maybe solar panels aren’t the only thing you’re interested in learning about. Perhaps you have additional health and safety questions you’d like answered.
If so, check out our other content! We cover several topics to help you take control of your life, so find the tips you need today!
