Are you worried about your energy bills? Does it seem like you’re paying more and more for electricity every month?
If you’re looking to increase your energy savings, there are certain renewable technologies you should consider to power your home. These include wind turbines, solar ovens, hydroelectric generators, tubular skylights, and rooftop solar panels.
Among these options, solar panels are probably the most familiar to people, which isn’t surprising because installations continue to rise around the world. Of course, there are also those who might not understand what are solar panels and how they work.
That said, let’s discuss some solar panel basics, and why you might want to consider a solar power system for your home.
First Things First: What Are Solar Panels?
From handheld calculators to wristwatches to remote radio-telephones and more, solar cells or photovoltaic cells have many applications.
A solar cell is a device that can convert solar energy (i.e., photons from the sun) into electricity. A solar panel is a collection of solar cells, while a group of solar panels is called an array.
Now, for residential solar panels, the PV cells are usually crystalline silicon, which is a semiconducting material. When sunlight hits the panels, electrons are freed from their atoms, which is what generates electricity.
But the type of electricity (direct current or Dc) generated by your solar power system isn’t ready for use just yet. It needs to be converted into AC or alternating current so that it’s compatible with your appliances. This is why aside from solar panels, your system will also include an inverter.
The Main Benefits of Solar Energy
Aside from lowering your energy bills, going solar has other considerable benefits. These include:
- Increasing Affordability
One of the reasons some homeowners are reluctant to go solar is the high upfront fees associated with solar installation. However, there are federal, state, and local tax incentives that make solar more affordable in the long run.
You also have to consider that solar panels are cheaper now and will continue to get cheaper as technologies continue to improve.
- a Positive Impact on the Environment
If you want an energy source that’s truly green and renewable, solar is your best bet. It doesn’t produce harmful emissions, and it’ll take 5 billion years before it runs out.
By investing in a solar power system for your home, you’ll be doing your part in protecting the environment, and ensuring resources for future generations.
- Low Maintenance Costs
Solar panels are quite durable. They’re guaranteed to last for at least 25 years, with some high-quality panels lasting up to 40 years.
They also don’t require a lot of maintenance, so once you’ve paid off your solar power system, you don’t have to worry about spending a lot of money on repairs. And if you plan on selling your home in the future, you’d be glad to know that solar power can help boost your house’s value.
Are You Interested in Going Solar?
Now that you can answer, “What are solar panels?” are you thinking of having solar panels installed?
If yes, make sure to do your research and carefully evaluate the different solar installers in your area, or maybe you can ask your friends or neighbours, who’ve already gone solar for their recommendations.
For more tips and advice on making your home more energy-efficient, feel free to browse the site. You might also want to check some posts on wellness, self-love, self-care, intentional living, and so on.
*Don’t forget to download my #FREE Lifestyle APP Live a Well-Designed Life
