Photovoltaic cells (PV cells) are the technical name for solar panels. Consumers have the option of purchasing and installing any of three different types of PV cells including polycrystalline cells, monocrystalline cells and amorphous cells. According to the sources at Alpha Solar, monocrystalline solar panels are the most efficient solar panels available.
PV cells are constructed of silicone. A silicone wafer PV cell features a layer of a boron solution on one side according to Science Clarified. The other side has been dipped in a phosphorous solution. The boron solution features electrons that are eager to be given off. When a PV cell absorbs solar radiation, the loose electrons move and create an electrical current. The phosphorous solution absorbs the extra electrons which in turn creates a completely self-sustaining system within the solar panel.
Many solar panel manufacturing companies guarantee their panels for more than 25 years. Science Clarified claims solar panel consumers can pay off the cost of their solar panel system within 5 to 10 years with money saved from not having an electric bill. The Database of State Incentives for Renewable Energy explains that some states offer incentive programs to consumers that opt to install solar panels. A solar panel installation project in Wyoming can qualify for up to $3,000 worth of government assistance.
Despite the number of benefits associated with solar power, solar panel consumers should be informed of the limitations behind their solar panels. By definition, solar panels operate in the presence of solar radiation. When the sun is not shining or when there is considerable cloud cover, solar panels cannot produce electricity. It is for this very reason that many solar panel consumers have their solar panel systems linked up to a generator where they can store their energy for days when the sun does not come out to shine.
Having solar panels installed can be quite a costly venture. Polycrystalline solar panels are the most affordable types of solar panels at between $8 and $10 per watt according to Planetary Power. Monocrystalline solar panels are available for between $10 and $11 per watt. An amorphous solar panel can cost the consumer around $10 per watt. According to Guide 4 Home, used solar panels can be purchased for a fraction of the ticket price of new solar panels.
People that wish to enter the solar panel installation field can train to become solar electricians at many institutions across the country. Installing an electrical wiring system that operates off solar power is radically different than installing an electrical wiring system that taps into the local power grid according to Boots on the Roof.
For this reason, solar electricians must receive different training than traditional electricians. Solar electricity flow is neither constant nor regulated which is why solar panels are usually hooked up to a battery or generator system. But to avoid depleted power reserves, solar power systems should remain connected to the local power grid in some fashion or another.
Extensive training is needed to become a certified solar electrician. To even qualify for training as a solar electrician, an associate's degree in electrical engineering is needed. Boots on the Roof offers a Solar PV Installation Training program to qualified candidates. The program is designed to inform the student of all the subtle nuances involved in solar panel installation. Solar power and solar panel training should also be pursued by solar device owners to inform them as to how to properly maintain their solar devices.