Solar Panels Cost

We are definitely aware of the advantages and disadvantages of solar energy or solar power. The idea of using solar power systems for almost everything has been a dream for years in almost every country. This is because the sun generates around 1000 watts of energy per sq. meter of the planet's surface. Now, that's really a huge amount, isn't it? If this energy is converted appropriately, we could perhaps run all our home and offices almost for free.

Solar Panels are the most important and vital parts used to generate power through sunlight. They provide electricity for commercial and residential applications. One of the best example is a solar calculator. Calculators have solar cells installed in them, which helps them function, as long as they are in sunlight. Solar panels cost varies according to the size (watts), the physical size, brand and many other factors.

How do Solar Panels Work

Photovoltaic cells are the basic and most essential parts of solar panels. They are generally made up of pure silicon infused with boron and phosphorous i.e. two layers of semi-conductors, one bearing a positive charge while the other a negative charge. These cells are wired together in a sealed weatherproof unit called a solar panel. When the sunlight reaches this panel, photons from the light are absorbed by the semiconductor atoms. These atoms later release electrons which travel from the negative layer of semiconductor to the positive layer, thus producing an electric current. This electric current flows in one direction and hence, it is termed as Direct Current (DC).

Solar panels work best when they are installed facing the north direction, where no trees or shadow obstructs the sunlight, and the sunlight directly points the panel. The effectiveness totally depends upon the area and the weather in that particular area. These factors help in analyzing the system's playback time and the likely energy output; further leading to estimation of cost.

Solar Panels Pricing

As mentioned above, cost of solar panels varies according to different factors. The following are some of them.

Size in Watts: The cost is generally calculated in dollars per watt. This unit (watt) is correlated to the output of electricity that's generated. For example, a 300 watt panel will generate 300 watt electricity in an hour in favorable conditions.

Physical Size: The physical size also varies according to the panel's electricity generating capacity. For example, 300 watt panel will be bigger than 100 watt panel.

Durability: This is one of the most crucial factors while analyzing the cost. There are various companies that give a 10 year warranty. But, one needs to be careful because if the savings are not more than or equal to what you invest, then it would definitely be a bad deal. The warranty is validated only till the company exists; and there is no guarantee if it's not a noted company. Most of the noted companies generally give a 25 year warranty.

Certifications: Certifications do matter, because the goodwill of the company is basically the guarantee of their quality being genuine; solar panel efficiency and assurance of a good service after sales.

Method to Calculate the Cost for 100% Solar Power

• To calculate the cost, you will need the KWH amount of electricity utilized by you (that is mentioned on the bill of a single month).
• The average daily usage can be calculated once the total KWH unit of electricity is divided by 30. For example, if you use 300 KWH in a month, your daily usage is calculated to be 10 KWH per day.
• This number (in this example, 10 KWH) has to be divided by total sun hours per day on a yearly average.
• The sum, thus, achieved has to be multiplied by 1.15, which will provide you with the approximate quantity of watts of solar panel you would require to supply power every day. Continuing the same example, divide 10 by 5 full sun hours, which would be 2 KW or say 2000 watts. Multiplying it with 1.15 (i.e. 2000 x 1.15) is 2300 watts; which is the actual capacity of watts of solar panel needed.
• Average solar panels expense to generate electricity is $7 per watt, and if done by hiring a contractor it's $9 per watt. The mentioned rates are inclusive of panels, inverters, wire, mounts and other hardware.

As the usage of these panels has increased, the costs have dropped down and efficiency too has been attaining its mark. You can even take a look at how to build a solar panel on your own. So what are you waiting for, "Save electricity, save Earth, go Solar!"