The three types of solar panels available to consumers are amorphous solar panels, polycrystalline solar panels and monocrystalline solar panels. Monocrystalline panels utilize a single crystal in their construction while polycrystalline panels are constructed out of any number of crystals. In terms of efficiency, monocrystalline panels are the most efficient of the three, according to Alpha Solar. But they are linked with the highest price tag of the three. According to Science Clarified, the energy saved from installing solar panels can cover the cost of a solar panel system within 5 to 10 years of installation.
Solar panels are also called photovoltaic cells. Each photovoltaic cell is made up of a thin silicone wafer, according to Science Clarified. One side of the silicone wafer features a boron solution while the other side features a phosphorous solution. The boron side has electrons that want to be moved. When sunlight hits a solar panel, the loose electrons are given off, resulting in the production of a measurable amount of electricity. A wire that is attached to every wafer conducts the electricity to a storage device. The whole system is self-sustaining because after the electrons produce their energy, they transfer over to the phosphorous side of the silicone wafer because the phosphorous can take on extra electrons.
Solar panels only operate under direct sunlight, on a gloomy day, solar panels do not produce electricity. For this reason, most solar panel systems are wired to generators or batteries so the electricity they produce can be used at the convenience of the consumer. This system of gathering and storing electricity sometimes requires extensive wiring which is why only solar electricians should install and perform maintenance on solar panel systems.
Despite the energy independence from utilizing solar power, most solar panel systems are still wired to the local power grid. This is done to keep the consumer from running into a situation where they have no power generated from their solar panels for whatever reason. This also makes the option available to sell the power generated from a solar device back to the local electric company. Solar panels can create the opportunity for solar panel consumers to generate revenue from their investment.
Solar electricians require a different training program than traditional electricians, according to Boots on the Roof. Boots on the Roof is just one of many institutions across the country that trains people for solar panel installation, wiring and maintenance. Because solar radiation is not constant, solar electricians need to be able to connect solar panel systems into an electrical storage system such as a battery. The risk of depleted reserves of electricity is why most solar panel systems are still connected to local power grids. Most institutions require prospective solar electricians to have a background involving some level of advanced electrical engineering training before they are considered for solar electrician training.