How to Choose the Right Solar Panels for Your Home or Business

Introduction

A brief overview of solar energy and its growing importance.

Given the current environmental challenges posed by emissions from fossil fuels and other sources of energy, there are numerous reasons why people choose to switch to solar power. From achieving energy independence and reducing energy bills to addressing climate concerns, solar energy helps mitigate impending disasters by curbing the emission of greenhouse gases and providing a renewable and clean source of energy.

Solar panels are made of photovoltaic cells that take in energy from the sun and turn it into electricity.¹ They do this by capturing sunlight, which excites electrons in semiconductor materials like silicon, creating electric current.² The flow of electrons is captured by conductive plates and wiring, generating direct current (DC) electricity.³ A solar inverter is used to convert the DC electricity into alternating current (AC) for use in homes and businesses.⁴ This is necessary because most household appliances and the electrical grid run on AC, while the electricity generated by solar panels is DC.⁵ In some cases where appliances or systems run on DC, the electricity can be used directly without an inverter. A photovoltaic system typically includes photovoltaic modules, an inverter, a battery pack, a charge controller, interconnection wiring, circuit breakers, fuses, disconnect switches, voltage meters, and optionally, a solar tracking mechanism.⁶

Why choosing the right solar panels is crucial for energy efficiency and cost savings

The efficiency of solar panels is measured by their ability to convert sunlight into electricity. High-quality solar panels have a higher efficiency rating, which means they can generate more electricity from the same amount of sunlight.⁷ This is an important consideration when choosing solar panels for your home or business, as higher efficiency means more energy production and greater savings in the long run.⁸

If you are thinking of acquiring a solar system for your home or business place, then here are some things to take note of before making your pick:

1. Assessing Your Energy Needs

To assess your energy needs, the following factors should be considered:

• Calculate your energy consumption Initiate the process by conducting a meticulous evaluation of your energy consumption, encompassing both present and projected future needs. Look into the details of your electricity bills spanning the previous year, meticulously examining the data to ascertain your average monthly and annual energy usage trends. Moreover, anticipate any forthcoming alterations in your energy requirements, such as the incorporation of additional appliances or the transition to an electric vehicle, to ensure a thorough assessment that accounts for all potential factors influencing your energy consumption.
• Business vs. residential energy needs Residential energy needs are generally lower while Commercial energy consumption tends to be higher. Energy use in homes peaks in the mornings and evenings when residents are home while many businesses operate throughout the day, often 8-10 hours or even 24/7. This means they consume energy continuously during working hours. The primary energy usage is for personal comfort and convenience while businesses rely on energy for more diverse needs, including running office equipment, powering industrial machines, lighting large spaces, climate control, and operating security systems. Residential solar panel systems are usually smaller, typically ranging from 3 to 10 kW in size, depending on the household’s needs and available roof space while commercial solar systems tend to be much larger, ranging from 10 kW to several megawatts (MW) to meet higher energy demands.

2. Types of Solar Panels

• Monocrystalline panels Monocrystalline solar panels are known for their high efficiency, space efficiency, longevity, heat resistance, and low-light performance.⁹ They offer the highest level of efficiency, require less space, have a longer lifespan, exhibit excellent heat resistance, and perform well in low-light conditions. These features make them ideal for various installations and climates, providing a reliable energy solution.
• Polycrystalline panels Polycrystalline panels are less expensive and have a similar lifespan, but they require more space, are less efficient, have less sustainable production, and have lower heat tolerance compared to monocrystalline panels.
• Thin-Film Panels Thin-film solar panels have the advantages of being lightweight and low-profile, inexpensive, and available in different PV materials.¹⁰ However, they have the drawbacks of low efficiency, consuming a lot of space, and being less durable.

3. Efficiency and Power Output

• Understanding efficiency ratings A solar panel’s efficiency rating tells you how good a solar panel is at turning sunlight into usable electricity.¹¹ The higher the efficiency rating, the more electricity that panel can generate.¹² Today, most home solar panels have efficiency ratings between 19% and 21%. But as solar technology improves, more and more solar manufacturers are reaching 22% or higher efficiencies¹³

4. Installation Space and Positioning

• The direction of solar panels is crucial for maximizing sunlight exposure and solar panel performance.¹⁴ In the Northern Hemisphere, panels should face south, while in the Southern Hemisphere, they should face north to tackle shading.¹⁵
• Space requirements Generally, every square foot of roof space has the potential to generate about 15 watts of solar energy.¹⁶ Thus, if you want to get a sense of how many panels a roof can support here’s an easy calculation you can do: Multiply the square footage of your roof by .75 to account for the required solar setback. Take that number, and divide it by 17.5, which is the average square footage of the standard solar panel size. The resulting number is the maximum number of solar panels you can fit on your roof. A larger roof area allows for the installation of more panels, which can compensate for lower-wattage panels if needed.

5. Cost and Budget Considerations

Although the upfront cost of installing solar systems can be quite high, the long-term benefits of reduced energy bills can translate into significant cost savings.¹⁷ By harnessing solar power, homeowners and businesses can enjoy sustainable and affordable energy solutions that contribute to both financial savings and environmental conservation.¹⁸

• Warranty and lifespan Ensuring that you choose solar panels with a reliable warranty and long lifespan is crucial. This choice is essential in safeguarding against unexpected damages and potential costs incurred personally.

6. Quality and Certifications

• Choosing reputable manufacturers & Looking for certifications When considering the purchase of solar panels, it is crucial to select products from reputable and trusted manufacturers. Additionally, it’s important to look for industry certifications and qualifications to ensure the quality and reliability of the panels. UL 1703 is an industry-standard attesting to the safety and performance of solar panel modules.¹⁹ Similarly to IEC 61215 or 61703 tests, panels with this certification undergo simulated climatic and aging tests and have been deemed safe regarding mechanical loads, fire, and electrical hazards.²⁰

7. Inverters and Electrical Compatibility

Solar inverters play a crucial role in solar systems by converting DC electricity generated by solar panels into usable AC electricity.²¹ Proper inverter sizing is essential for maximizing the efficiency and output of your solar system.²² The inverter’s capacity should match the power output of your solar panels to ensure optimal performance.²³ Over sizing or under sizing the inverter can lead to decreased efficiency and energy production. Consulting with a solar energy expert can help you determine the ideal inverter size for your specific needs and ensure the long-term success of your solar investment.

Make sure to verify that the electrical system in your home or business has the capacity to accommodate solar energy installation.

8. Maintenance and Durability

Solar panels are made with tempered glass and metal frames to withstand strong winds, hail, ice, snow, and blown debris.²⁴ The performance of solar panels is significantly affected by the amount and intensity of sunlight.²⁵ Ideal conditions for optimal performance include temperatures between 70 and 90°F, sunny days with minimal cloud cover, light breezes, and low humidity.²⁶ While solar panels can still function in cloudy or snowy conditions, their efficiency may decrease.²⁷ To optimize performance, it’s important to keep the panels clean and unobstructed. Solar panels generally require minimal maintenance, but regular cleaning to remove dust and debris, as well as periodic inspections to ensure proper functioning, are recommended.²⁸ The lifespan of solar panels typically ranges from 25 to 30 years.²⁹

In conclusion, Choosing the right solar panels for your home or business is an important decision. By carefully considering these factors, you can make an informed choice and enjoy the benefits of clean, renewable energy.