If you are new to solar energy, understanding all the technical terms and parts involved in module installation can be overwhelming. You may have many questions before deciding to bring solar energy into your life!
Today, we will look at the different components that make up a solar energy system.
Photo from Solar Advice
Take a look at the pictures above and below. Here you will see that the solar energy system is relatively simple. As you see from the above picture, the solar energy system consists of solar modules, a mounting system, an inverter, your current electrical panel and a meter! These components connect together and then connect to the transformer on your electrical utility pole!
Let's go a little more in-depth and discuss the importance of each of these components! Today we will cover solar modules!
Solar modules
Solar modules are the main component that interacts with the sun. The module absorbs the sun's rays into solar cells, which then creates a photovoltaic effect. The photovoltaic effect is a physical and chemical reaction that makes some materials work together to produce an electric current when the sun hits the area [1].
The cells make up the module, and they loosen the electrons from their atoms and creates energy that flows across the module. When the electrons are flowing freely, this creates the production of electricity. From here, the electricity flows inward to your home or business [2].
Diagram from Kite electric
Types of solar modules
Did you know there are many different kinds of solar modules? The two main types of modules are monocrystalline and polycrystalline.
What's the difference?
While both types do the same thing, the difference between monocrystalline and polycrystalline is that the monocrystalline is considered to be a higher premium solar product. This is because these modules are higher efficiency and are sleeker in design. This keeps the bulkiness of solar energy off your roof!
Monocrystalline
When this type of module is made, silicon wafers are formed into bars and then sliced into thin wafers—called mono because it is single-crystal silicon, allowing more space for the electrons to flow! [3]
Polycrystalline
Polycrystalline solar modules are made up of multiple melted silicon fragments to produce wafers for the module. The electrons in this type of design have less space to move, and the efficiency is considered lower [4][1], but these types of modules have come a long way with their technology.
Both types of modules are available for installation, depending on what you prefer!
What are solar modules made of?
Most solar modules are made of silicon which is a semiconductor material. Silicon is an excellent material as it is in abundance on the planet and helps keep module production low. It is also non-toxic and allows for the sun to produce more electricity for you![5] An anti-reflective material covers the cells to ensure maximum sunlight absorption. There is also glass that protects the cells from being damaged.
Check out the photo below to see the general makeup of a solar energy module!
Photo by longi solar
P-type and N-type
The P-type and N-type layers within a solar module are also essential but could confuse those unfamiliar with solar energy. To make it simple, P = positive and N= negative! So the P- layers are the positive charge for the solar module, and the N is the negative charge! [6]
Electricity
The energy that comes from solar modules is DC (direct current); it can technically be used in that form – however, an inverter turns that energy into AC (alternating current) which is better for the electrical appliances and devices in your home and is less likely to create a power surge in your home [7].
Photo by longi solar
Conclusion
SEAAA ensures its partners use the highest quality of technology and innovation in their installs. The manufacturers we recommend for solar modules include Canadian Solar, Longi, Hanwha Q-Cell.
[1] (Solar Metric, 2021)
[2] (Solar Metric, 2021)
[3] (Solar Magazine, 2020)
[4] (Solar Magazine, 2020)
[5] (Solar.com, 2019)
[6] (Solar Metric, 2021)
[7] (Solar Metric, 2021)
References
Solar Magazine. (2020, 07 28). [Comparison] Monocrystalline vs Polycrystalline Solar Panels. Retrieved from https://solarmagazine.com/solar-panels/monocrystalline-vs-polycrystalline-solar-panels/
Solar Metric. (2021, 05 27). How Do Solar Panels Work? Retrieved from https://solarmetric.com/learn/how-do-solar-panels-work/
Solar.com. (2019, 09 05). What are solar panels made of? Retrieved 05 27, 2021, from https://www.solar.com/learn/what-are-solar-panels-made-of/