subject: PV Panels The Past With Energy For Tomorrow [print this page] PV Panels The Past With Energy For Tomorrow
Photovoltaic cells have been improving since they were created. Their efficiency has also improved, and they are no longer as expensive. One PV cell usually cannot generate all of the power necessary by itself. Because of this, cells are grouped to make modules, also called solar panels. Read on and find out that PV panels will be one of the most reliable forms of energy in the future.
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 be able to use the energy that is generated, the electricity is processed through an electricity grid through an inverter. If the inverter is connected to a system that stands alone, then batteries can be used to store any energy that is not used immediately. There are many solar gadgets available that work on this same principle.
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.
