Solar power refers to the energy radiated from the sun which is then converted into electrical energy. When compared to fossil fuels, solar energy won’t run out anytime soon. Solutions like solar systems help in the production of solar energy. A solar system comprises of solar panels, a mounting system, and a solar inverter with a battery backup system. Solar panels produce DC electricity from sunlight, while a solar panel inverter is responsible for converting the generated electricity into an alternating current so that it can be used by households.
While shopping for solar panels, you will come across different manufacturers who make solar panels using different solar technologies and types of solar cells. Broadly there are 2 types of solar panels that are commonly used- Monocrystalline PERC panels and Polycrystalline solar panels.
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Monocrystalline PERC Panels
Mono PERC panels are made using single silicon crystals. Mono PERC panels are 2.5% more efficient when compared to a polycrystalline panel. Solar cells of these panels come with an additional back layer film which helps them to absorb scattered or reflected sunlight resulting in achieving higher power generation and function better under adverse conditions like low light and high-temperature atmosphere. These solar panels are space- efficient too – you can easily install them on small rooftops as well.
Polycrystalline Solar Panels
Polycrystalline solar panels comprise of several silicon crystals fragmented together, and their colour is in a shade of blue with a pattern that is unique and distinctive from mono PERC panels. Polycrystalline panels offer PID (potential-induced degradation) resistance technology. This guarantees a high degree of safety against power failures. These solar panels are the best option for those who want to get an inexpensive solar solution with excellent low light efficiency and anti-reflective coating.
Installation Process
Are you planning to install solar panels? Well, to ease out the process of solar panel installation, we bring you a handy guide that will help you with the installation:
- Set-up Scaffolding
During the process of solar panel installation, you need to ensure safety during the entire installation journey. Therefore, as the first step, you have to erect scaffolding on the roof.
- Install Solar Panel Mounts
As a next step, you need to set-up a solar panel mounting system. This will support the base of solar panels. The entire mounting structure needs to be tilted at an angle of 18 to 36 degrees facing south direction to get the maximum sunlight.
- Install the Solar Panels
Once the mounting is completed, install the solar panels on the mounting structure. Make sure that you properly tighten all the nuts and bolts so that they will stay stable.
- Wire the Solar Panels
The next step is to install the electrical wiring system. MC4 connectors are used in most cases because they are suitable for all types of solar panels. Do not forget to shut off the household’s electricity supply during the wiring installation.
- Install Solar Inverter
After the wiring is completed, the solar inverter should be connected to the system. A solar inverter is typically installed near the main panel, and it could be both indoors and outdoors. Inverters will be more efficient if they are kept in a cooler place.
- Connect Solar Inverter and Solar Batteries
The solar inverter should be connected to the solar batteries. Solar battery storage can keep you safe from stressing about the lack of usable energy during cloudy days, and it can significantly lower the solar battery storage system costs during installation.
- Connect Inverter with Grid Supply
Connect the inverter to the grid supply to switch it on. You can also connect remote monitoring device, which will help in monitoring the amount of electricity the solar panels produce would help to track your solar system’s performance.
- Test the Solar Panels
As a final step, switch the power on and test the newly installed solar panel system. After the test run, the solar panel installation process is completed.
Maintenance of Solar Panels
Since there are no moving parts involved, solar panels need less maintenance. Using a normal garden hose, you can wash the face of the panels. Avoid spraying the solar panels with cold water while they are hot because that might damage them. For further cleaning, you can use a soft cloth with soapy water to clean them.
You can purchase solar panels from India’s most trusted retailers like Luminous. They offer an extensive range of solar panels that is supported by the Pan India service network. You can choose the solar panels according to your needs. For further assistance, you can also seek help from a team of professionals who will help you with the installation process.