subject: PV Panels The Past And Energy For The Present [print this page] PV Panels The Past And 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.
Cells need protection from the weather. This is why they are placed between two panes of glass. Inside each module, the cells are connected in what is called a series. Series refers to the pattern of the circuitry connection used. When the series pattern is used, the current will pass through all of the cells.
When cells are connected parallel, then higher currents are yielded. Modules can be connected in arrays by parallel, or by series until the DC voltage, and current necessary are reached. The power that is generated from the solar array is measured by watts or kilowatts.
The energy is then processed by an electricity grid and then an inverter in order to make the best use of it. Batteries can be used to store any extra energy that is not used at that time if the system is a stand-alone. There are many solar gadgets on the market that operate in this same fashion.
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.
