subject: PV Panels The Past With Energy For The Present [print this page] PV Panels The Past With Energy For The Present
PV cell continue to improve since their creation. Not only has their efficiency improved, but they are much less costly as well. It will take more than just one Photovoltaic cell to generate enough power for most things. For that reason, the cells are put together in groups that make up modules which are called solar panels. The following will discuss PV panels their past and the future of energy.
Photovoltaic is Greek meaning light, and electric. This word has been part of English since 1849. In 1839, the photovoltaic effect was actually discovered, but the first cell was not created by Charles Fritts until 1883. Fuller, Pearson, and Chapin were the first to create the first efficient cell in 1954.
One solar panel may be able to provide a small amount of power, but in order to provide a large amount of power, then panels are arranged in what is known as an array. An array is a multiple of modules that are able to make a large quantity of electricity; enough to light a house, or power plant. Until just recently, solar panels have been much too costly for the general consumer.
The cells have to be protected from the elements, and so they are usually encased between glass. Solar cells are usually connected in what is called a series inside the module. A series refers to the order in which they are connected. When circuitry is connected in a series, the same current is allowed to flow through all of it.
When a parallel connection is used, then higher currents can be expected. The modules in the array are connected by parallel, series or both until the DC voltage, and current required is met. The generated power is measured in watts or kilowatts.
To make the best use of the electricity, it is processed through a grid, through an inverter. In a stand-alone system, batteries are used to store extra energy not used. Many solar gadgets that are currently available operate this way.
Financial incentives are available for individuals in many different countries to take advantage of the opportunity to support renewable energy efforts now. This is the time to convert your home or business to solar energy and help to change the future of the world. There is more renewable energy being wasted every day than can every be used, and natural resources are being depleted.
