Solar Photovoltaic Panels - An Introduction

 

Solar pv panels, also called solar photovoltaic panels or solar electric modules, generate power when exposed to sun light. The photovoltaic effect was discovered in 1839 by nineteen-year-old Edmund Becquerel.

Modern solar pv panels were first developed commercially for NASA and the space race in the 1950's. With no moving parts, solar pv is a silent and reliable method of producing electricity in remote locations. Top quality solar modules have power performance warranties of 25 years, with an expected life of 60 years or more. An early commercial solar pv system, now 46 years old, is still producing power within warranty guidelines.

Solar pv panels are currently available in three main silicon-based technologies. Monocrystalline solar cells are the most efficient and also the most expensive. Polycrystalline or multicrystalline solar cells are almost as efficient as mono cells and are less expensive to manufacture.

How do solar panels work ? 

 

 

Latest Solar PV Industry News

 

 

Over the last few years the solar pv industry has seen a huge growth. The feed-in-tariffs (FiTs) in Germany, Spain and more recently in the UK, have helped to create buoyant markets and inflate demand.

In 2008, worldwide module production increased 80% on the previous year. In 2009 worldwide production grew by 60%. As a result of the global economic slowdown and decreasing production costs, module prices are now at an all time low.

Across the industry, many manufacturers have now signed up to PV Cycle, a mechanism designed to ensure that when modules reach the end of their life, they are easy to recycle.

 

 

Off-Grid Solar PV & Wind Power Applications

 

At Sunray International we supply commercial, industrial and domestic off-grid solar pv systems. This covers a diverse range of applications including remote data monitoring, water pumping, wireless communications and off-grid buildings.

Solar panels are also ideal for mobile battery charging use in boats, yachts, motorhomes and ups. Solar panels extend the life of most battery based power systems, as batteries like being on a regular charge.

Selecting Solar PV Panels

 

If you are looking for general information regarding the planning of an off-grid solar or wind energy system, you may like to contact us for free friendly advice and a no obligation survey and valuation.

If you would like any project specific advice or prices, our experienced system design team are able to design & cost a bespoke power system to your exact requirements.

Info@sunrayinternational.com   Pak Head Office +0092 305 52 999 82    UK Head Office +0044 7782150844