Solar Power Systems
For a lot of people, the most they know about modern solar power systems is that they require the use of a solar cell to run. While this is true, there is a lot of other components and processes that make up the big picture.
Before we get into what actually happens in a solar power system, let’s first cover why you should get one in the first place.
Using a perpetually abundant resource like sunlight is very appealing to two basic types of crowds.
People who are passionate about the environment fall under the first group. Many individuals – such as scientists and common homeowners – are aware of the reality that the world’s conventional sources of energy are limited.
Of course, lots of consumers who use fossil fuels are unconcerned by this fact. There are billion-dollar industries who continue to sell gasoline and other related products with the full knowledge that it will all run out one day.
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That’s why environmentally-minded folks believe that solar power systems are the wave of the future. No combustible gas is needed to make it work; photons of light serve as an infinite supply of fuel.
The other group of people using solar power systems is those who want to shave off their a huge chunk off their electric bill. After all, why spend on electricity when you can generate your own?
All you really need is the right equipment to get a solar power supply running, and the long-lasting components of your setup will give you the best value for your money.
Of course, investing in a solar power system may be costly at the beginning, but think of it as a downpayment for all the free electricity you’ll enjoy in the years to come.
So, what exactly do you need to set up a solar power system in your backyard? Well, the first thing you should know is that most homes use an intertied setup which is basically a connection that draws energy from both the sun and the regular power grid.
The solar power acts as your primary source of energy while the grid-based system will back you up in case it gets too cloudy.
Now, the first and most obvious component of a solar power system is the photovoltaic (PV) cell or solar panels which directly feed on sunlight and divert DC electricity to the circuit.
The DC disconnect is the next piece of the puzzle and acts as a safety device just in case you need to shut down the system for repairs. A grid-tie inverter converts DC power into AC electricity which is used by household appliances.
The DC disconnect is another safety feature to allow your utility company to do maintenance without the risk of shock. Finally, you have a utility meter to measure your power use (expressed in kilowatt hours) which can in fact, spin backwards when your excess solar power goes into the regular power line. (This consequently counts as credit towards your utility bill!)
With that, I strongly urge you to look into setting up a solar power system of your own because you stand to gain a lot from doing so.
Whether you’re a hardcore environmentalist, a thrifty homeowner or both (a frugal Earth-lover?), there’s definitely something in it for you.