Understanding Solar Technology
How Does Solar Energy Work?
Everyday, the sun provides us with free energy. Solar panels, also known as photovoltaic (PV) panels, are amazing green technologies that help us capture this energy and convert it into electricity.
Through their interconnected solar cells, typically made of silicon and responsible for capturing sunlight, solar panels create the photovoltaic effect. When sunlight hits the solar cells, it excites the electrons within the material, creating an electric current which is then converted into Direct Current (DC) electricity.
The DC electricity is then sent to battery storage banks or directly to the inverter where it is converted into Alternating Current (AC) electricity. This is the type of electricity that powers standard electrical appliances within your organization, business, or farm.
On sunny days, a solar array will sometimes produce more energy than your organization will use. When this happens, the excess energy is either sent back to the utility company or captured in battery banks/microgrid to be used at night or when sunlight is at a minimum.
Solar arrays produce energy that is consistent and well-regulated, easily avoiding damage to electrical equipment and resulting in energy systems that require minimal upkeep and maintenance. To help monitor the energy being produced by a solar array, a monitor system is set in place to allow you web-based access to real-time data.
Click here to learn more about the installation process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Installing a solar array offers numerous benefits to your farm or business, including:
- Cost savings on electricity bills over the long term.
- Reduced dependence on traditional energy sources and price fluctuations.
- Potential financial incentives, such as tax credits and rebates.
- Positive environmental impact by reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
- Increased energy independence and security.
The cost of a solar array system depends on various factors, such as size, location, equipment quality, and installation requirements. Payback periods typically range from 5 to 10 years, but this can vary based on electricity rates, available incentives, and system performance.
There are many incentives available to those looking to invest in green energy systems. The Inflation Reduction Act tax incentive, USDA and REAP grants, and the MACRS tax depreciation system are all excellent programs. Get more details here.
Yes, installing a solar array will reduce your electricity bills, though there will always be a monthly meter base fee. By generating your own clean energy, you can rely less on the grid and purchase less electricity from your utility provider.
Solar panels have a long lifespan, typically lasting 25 to 30 years or more with minimal maintenance or component replacement.
With minimal maintenance requirements, solar energy systems are relatively hassle-free once installed. Periodic cleaning and inspection ensure optimal performance are recommended, but they do not require extensive upkeep or frequent component replacements.
Have questions we didn’t answer? Give us a call and talk to one of our green energy technicians today.
702 E. Columbia Street
Flora, IN 46926
Phone: +1 765-480-4138
Email: gai@solargai.com
© 2023 Green Alternatives Inc. All Rights Reserved.