subject: Pv Panels In The Past With Energy For The Present [print this page] PV cells have improved a great deal since they were first created. They have become much more efficient, and much less expensive. More power is usually needed that a single photovoltaic cell can produce on its own. This is why photovoltaic cells are grouped together to form modules, or also known as solar panels. Continue reading to learn about PV panels energy for the future.
The term photovoltaic is a Greek word that means both light and electric. The term has been used in the English language since 1849. The photovoltaic effect was discovered in 1839, but the first cell was not actually built until 1883 by Charles Fritts. The first really efficient cell was developed by Chapin, Fuller, and Pearson in 1954.
A single solar panel can power a small amount of electricity however, for large amounts of electricity, panels are put into what are known as arrays. Arrays are multiples of modules that can produce large amounts of electricity to power a home or even a power plant. Until very recently, panels have been far too expensive to consider for the average 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.
Connecting cells in parallel yields higher currents. Modules can be connected together in an array by series or parallel until a desired direct current (DC) voltage and current are reached. The output of power from a solar array is measured in 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.
There are financial incentives available for individuals and business owners alike in many different countries to change to forms of renewable energy. The financial incentives for solar energy are especially great. This is the perfect time for a conversion of your business or home, and you can make a difference in the world at the same time. There is renewable energy being wasted every day, more than we can ever use, while our natural resources are being rapidly drained.
