Solar - The simple facts
What types of solar are there?
Solar Photovoltaic (Generate electricity)
Definition: Photovoltaics (PV) is a method of generating electrical power by converting solar radiation into direct current electricity using semiconductors that exhibit the photovoltaic effect. Photovoltaic power generation employs solar panels composed of a number of solar cells containing a photovoltaic material.
In english: Basically it converts sunlight into Direct Current electricity.
Solar Thermal (Solar hot water) If your interested in solar hot water
Definition: Solar thermal energy (STE) is a form of energy and a technology for harnessing solar energy to generate thermal energy or electrical energy for use in industry, and in the residential and commercial sectors.
In english: Using the heat from the sun to heat your water
What does a solar PV system consist of?
- Solar Array - made up of a series of solar panels that join together to make an array. Solar systems start at 1.5KW and upwards
- Inverter - The inverter is the link between the solar panels, your house and the electricity grid. It converts the power produced by the solar panels from Direct current to usable power in the form of alternating current
- Balance of system - this includes the mounting system for you solar panels, isolation switches to turn off the power and cabling to join it all together
What do I need to consider when choosing solar
Ok so we know what solar is and how it works, now what?
Next we need to consider some key things to determine if solar is right for you.
You can size a solar system to suit your energy usage!
Solar PV systems start at 1.5KW and upwards, as mentioned in the previous section the power being generated by your solar system is first consumed by your electrical devices that are operating with the excess being sent back to the electricity network. For this reason it is best to use your power during the day when the sun is out to maximise the return from your solar system.
Solar works best when its orientated to North
The sun rises in the East and sets in the West and depending on the time of year circles around to the north sky. For this reason in Australia solar works optimally throughout the year when facing North. Whilst some losses do occur you can also use East and West orientations.
Depending on the type of inverter you have you may be able to locate your panels on 2 different orientations allowing you to access more power.
Do you have sufficient roof space pointing North, East or West?
This can be tricky to work out and we recommend contacting us when your ready to take the next step, We will visit you at home and measure your roof space to work out exactly what will fit and the expected power generated based on your roofs orientation
Am I effected by shading?
Shading causes losses in the production of electricity which is why we try to avoid shading wherever possible. There are a number of solutions in the marketplace that assist with optimising solar where shading is present.
What are the benefits
Now for the good stuff, whats in it for me other than saving the planet
Significant reduction in your electricity bill
Solar works during the day when the sun is in the sky, so its important to understand how your currently using your power and what you can do to maximise your savings from solar.
Firstly how many days per week are you at home during the day including weekends?
Can you program devices such as washing machines, dishwashers, dryers and pool pumps to operate during the day when the sun is out?
By changing some basic habits you can really maximise the savings achieved through solar!
If you would like some help in working out what size solar system suits you, we will be happy to visit you at home or your office
Saving the planet
I know I already mentioned it however it is another benefit of solar, you are helping to reduce the consumption of fossil fuels and working towards a greener future for you and human kind!
Ready to chat to someone why not call us on 03 5722 3093 or send an enquiry here
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