Scarlett Reign Consultancy

06/09/2021

SOLAR PANEL/ PHOTO-VOLTAIC (PV) MODULE
A major component in the assembly of a solar system is the panels. This is how the energy is captured or harnessed in readiness for conversion into a form that can be consumed. A solar panel, or photo-voltaic (PV) module, is an assembly of photo-voltaic cells mounted in a framework for installation. Solar panels use sunlight as a source of energy to generate direct current electricity. A collection of PV modules is called a PV panel, and a system of PV panels is called an array. Arrays of a photovoltaic system supply solar electricity to electrical equipment.

Solar panels are made up of crystalline cells. A solar panel contains up to 40 solar cells. There are three main types of solar panel cells. These include:
• Polycrystalline Solar Panels
• Monocrystalline Solar Panels
• Thin Film Solar Panels

It’s important to understand the difference, because your choice will determine cost and amount of roof space your solar installation requires. You’ve probably noticed that they don’t all look exactly alike. Solar panels don’t all perform the same way. Each of them have different capabilities, energy-efficiency levels, and total installation costs.
The best solar panel option for your home will depend on your budget and the cost to install solar energy, roof space, access to sunlight, and your desired energy-efficiency.
Now, each type of panel has some pros and cons. Let’s look at and see what you need to know…

1. Monocrystalline Solar Panels
• Despite being the oldest type of solar panel, a monocrystalline panel is the most developed. Monocrystalline panels are created from a single continuous crystal structure. They contain monocrystalline cells that are made out of pure silicon. Monocrystalline cells appear black due to the interaction between sunlight and pure silicon. (Dark black color) However, buyers can choose from a variety of colors when it comes to back sheets and frames.

Pros:
• Most developed of the three technologies, Monocrystalline cells are placed in a pyramid pattern, which results in an increased surface area for better absorption of solar energy.
• These cells have higher efficiency (between 17% and 20%) than the other kinds of solar cells because they are made of more pure silicon. You will notice a uniformity to their coloring
• Occupy the least space for the same amount of power than other technologies
• Performs better in low levels of sunlight – ideal for cloudy areas
• Higher heat resistance / tolerance than Polycrystalline
• They are very susceptible to shading effects and quickly lose output with even small amounts of shading
• The longevity of monocrystalline cells is up greater than the rest.

Cons:
• The only challenge associated with monocrystalline panels in their cost. Being the most efficient, these panels are more expensive.

2. Polycrystalline Solar Panels
These panels are the most popular among the three types of solar panels. The surface of polycrystalline panels looks like a mosaic and are square. The surface has a bluish tone as the panels are made up of several crystals of silicon. These cells can be recognized within a solar panel for their rectangular shape, created when silicon is melted and poured into a mold. The polycrystalline silicon panels have a distinctive and grainy look. But because of the impurities, it is less efficient compared to monocrystalline. Polycrystalline are a newer technology and vary in the manufacturing process.

Pros:
• These cells have an efficiency between 13% and 17%.
• Simple and inexpensive production of polycrystalline panels makes them less costly.
• Produces more power in hotter weather. (preferable in hot/sunny areas)
• Polycrystalline panels are more eco-friendly than monocrystalline panels.
• These panels cost less as they have a simple manufacturing process, there’s less consumption of silicon during the making of polycrystalline panels.

Cons:
• These panels are less efficient in low light conditions
• Occupy marginally more space than Monocrystalline for the same power output.
• Polycrystalline cells are not as heat tolerant or efficient as monocrystalline cells.
• Specifically, they do not generate as much electricity from the sun. This can affect factors like the amount of electricity you can harvest from solar energy

3. Thin-Film Panels
Thin-film panels belong to the second generation of solar cells. Thin film panels are a totally different technology to Mono and Poly crystalline panels. They are a new technology compared to Mono and Polycrystalline cells. They are made by depositing a photovoltaic substance onto a solid surface like glass. The photovoltaic substance / material that is used varies and multiple combinations of substances have successfully and commercially been used. As the name suggests, thin-film panels are much thinner than those that use silicon wafers and can be identified as having a solid black appearance. They may or may not have a frame, if the panel has no frame it is a thin film panel.

Pros:
• Thin film solar panel is much cheaper than the other two types of panels. Customers can save on installation costs as well due to its lightweight construction.
• Less affected by shading than Mono or Polycrystalline (Thin-film has the best shade tolerance.)
• More efficient in low light conditions
• It performs better under hotter temperatures compared to other types.
• Thin-film panels are more flexible than crystalline solar cells and can be made from various materials and not just silicon. So for those who don’t like the appearance of solar panels on a roof, thin film is a good alternative.

Cons:
• Thin film solar panels have the lowest conversion efficiency efficient than crystalline solar panels. (They offer an efficiency between 7% – 13 %.)
• Thin film solar panels requires more space than Mono or Polycrystalline.
• They also tend to degrade more quickly

In conclusion……..
With the passing years, solar technology has made its advancements. All types of solar panels have their benefits. After our overview of the different types, we have concluded the following:
• If you have the money for long-term investment, choose monocrystalline solar panels – these will last for years to come, and you’ll get efficiency in space and electricity production.
• If you’re looking for a less pricey option and efficiency, go for polycrystalline solar panels – these won’t give you the space advantage, but they are as good as monocrystalline.
• If you don’t mind getting your solar panels changed every two years or so, and you want a cheaper opportunity, you should go with thin-film solar panels – based on your requirements you can choose from different types after consulting an expert.

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06/09/2021

A solar panel, or photo-voltaic (PV) module, is an assembly of photo-voltaic cells mounted in a framework for installation. TheyA major component in the assembly of a solar system is the panels. This is how the energy is captured or harnessed in readiness for conversion into a form that can be consu...

16/04/2021

COMPONENTS OF SOLAR PV SYTEMS
What are the components of Solar PV Systems?

Solar photovoltaic systems generally consist of six individual components: the solar PV array, a charge controller, a battery bank, an inverter, a utility meter, and an electric grid. The correct installation of all of these components determines how efficient the solar panels are.

However, a charge controller and battery bank are optional. Even though these two components help you store and, as such, make better use of your generated electricity, they could also increase the total price of the photovoltaic installation.

Component 1: Solar Photovoltaic Array

A solar photovoltaic array consists of a number of solar PV panels that are electrically connected. The solar PV array generates DC electricity from sunlight. PV systems offer many different designs and a wide variety of electrical needs, regardless of how large or small the installation surface is.

Component 2: Charge Controller

Regulates the DC from the solar panels to make sure that the batteries don’t overcharge. It can measure whether the batteries are fully charged, and can stop the current from flowing in order to prevent the batteries from damage.

Component 3: Battery Bank

It makes sure that none of your unused energy goes to waste, as it stores the energy that is produced by the PV array and not consumed immediately. It can then, supply your home with electricity during the night or during very cloudy weather when there is insufficient sunlight. Including a battery bank in your photovoltaic systems is optional, but can double the amount of solar energy you can use.

Component 4: Inverter

A solar power inverter is a key part of any solar photovoltaic system, as it converts electricity from DC to AC. This is necessary, since you need AC power for the energy supply of your home appliances.

Component 5: Utility Meter

Regardless of your solar PV system, your household has a power meter that measures the electricity consumption. The utility meter is connected to the PV system and measures how much electricity you are using in your home.

Component 6: Electric Grid

If your home is connected to an electric grid means that during periods when the PV system doesn’t cover your energy needs, you will be able to supply your home with power from the electric grid, if necessary.

In conclusion, since solar photovoltaic system costs can vary depending on many different factors, there is not a single price but rather a wide range of options and costs. The installation cost for solar panels mostly depends on the size, inclination, and condition of your roof, and the amount of electricity required for your home.

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Tags: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/june-isige-34b6395b_renewableenergy-energystorage-activity-6788807957330051072-ikSb, SELECTING THE RIGHT SOLAR PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEM

17/02/2021

Let us look at solar photovoltaic (PV) systems. Selecting The Right Solar Voltaic Systems from an investment standpoint is key.

29/01/2021

A renewable energy source means energy that is sustainable, something that can't run out, or is endless, like the sun. With this in mind, we can then have the flexibility of open ended exploration of harnessing this energy.

15/01/2021

In recent years, all outdoor electric products that use solar energy are becoming very popular. The Solar lights combine solar energy to becomes solar powered lights.

27/11/2020

Lights come in different shapes and sizes and they are used for different lighting needs. One such light is the floodlight and contrary to what people think, the wrong choice of this light can in the long run be expensive and become cumbersome to the owner.

19/10/2020

Complete Hybrid Solar System

A grid-interactive Hybrid solar system intelligently gives you the best of both worlds. With the convenience of a grid connected system and there is added security of a battery backup as well.

08/10/2020

Nobody can argue the immense benefits of solar energy in the world. Yet, most of the people living in the rural areas are deprived of electricity.

25/09/2020

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Saving energy is important and usually this can be achieved by producing cheaper renewable energy. Solar installation should, therefore, not be done without analyzing the energy situation beforehand (energy audit) and implementing energy saving measures.

27/08/2020

Let's finish off the water heating discussion. These are the most common systems in the market.
Direct Systems (open loop): Water is passed through the solar circuit. The water circulates from the domestic storage geyser directly through the thermal panels. Direct solar systems have been fitted in various formats, often connecting to the existing hot water geyser.
Advantages:
-Lower installation cost but, has a lower system life expectancy.
-Slightly better system performance over an indirect system.
Disadvantages:
-Greater accumulation of lime-scale, silt and other debris in the solar circuit, hence loss of system circulation, heat transfer, blockage of safety vales of bacteria build-up.
-Loss of performance and quantity of hot water due to the presence of scale reducing the thermal exchange between the solar panel and its water content.
-Potential freezing of fluids in the solar circuit and other parts of the primary circuit, risking damage.
-Reduced life expectancy of the solar panels due to blockage within the solar panel pipe system.
-Manufactures of direct systems hardly provide warranty.
-Direct water circulated panels have a higher maintenance requirement.
In conclusion, always research.

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03/08/2020

On the last post we looked at what water heating generally means. Today Let us delve deeper into understanding water heating systems. We are focusing on the Thermosiphon Geyser Solar Water Heating Systems. The system is either Indirect or Direct.

Indirect Systems (closed loop – heat pump) – This is what we offer

Also known as a split system, within an indirect solar heating system the domestic hot water is not passed through the solar circuit or the solar panels. A heat exchanger separates the domestic consumed hot water from the solar circuit. The solar circuit is filled with Glycol, Glycol acts as an anti-corrosion inhibitor and antifreeze.

Indirect solar systems require a special solar cylinder with an internal heat exchanger. The heat exchanger is a coil located within the water of a storage cylinder. Solar cylinders are manufactured with this required heat exchanger within the unit. Therefore, when installing an indirect thermal heating system, the installation will require a thermal indirect geyser to be installed.

Advantages of an Indirect Solar System

No risks of scale damaging within the solar panels or the solar circuit. The Glycol within the solar circuit will protect the system form corrosion.
System performance will not be reduced as a direct result of scale.
No risk of freezing of fluids, even on a very cold day the system can still operate without risk to equipment.
Bacteria will not build up in the panels and have direct contact with the domestic water.
Panels carry a better panel warranty since they are not at risk of corrosion of scale.

Disadvantages of Indirect Systems

Higher installation cost but, has a greater system life expectancy.

For this type of system, even the disadvantage is still an advantage!!

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Solar Water Heating Systems Costs Hot Water Round the Clock