The efficiency of a solar panel is a measure of how efficiently it converts the sun’s energy into electricity. Specifically, this number relates to the kilowatt-hours (kWh) of energy produced for each watt listed on your panel’s nameplate. Most panels have an efficiency rate between 14% and 20%.
That number may seem low, but the all-time record for panel efficiency under perfect lab conditions is just over 25%. This is the nature of generating electricity through a photovoltaic system; the remaining 80% of production is lost as waste heat.
Temperature coefficient
Solar panels produce less energy in extreme heat. Standard test conditions are 77ºF, and panels lose a percentage of their efficiency as the heat increases. A panel can have a temperature coefficient of 1% for every 4ºF increase in temperature above 77ºF. A panel’s temperature coefficient is much more important to homeowners in hot climates and should be considered when comparing panels.
How to choose your solar panels?
Determine the efficiency of the solar panels and compare it to the industry average which is between 16 and 18%.
Check the solar panel manufacturer’s warranties against an industry average of 10-25 years. Compare cost to relative efficiency – efficiency is important, but the most efficient panels are not always the best value.
What criteria should I use to choose a solar panel?
You can evaluate solar panels based on a few main parameters: production, durability, and manufacturer quality.
You will also want to look at the panel manufacturers’ quality indicators. Start with the warranties and insurance the manufacturer offers on their equipment. Like everything, Paneles solares degrade and become less efficient over time. Many manufacturers guarantee that the energy production of their panels does not fall below a certain threshold for twenty-five years. In addition, many panel manufacturers have a material warranty in the event of panel failure.
Although some homeowners have decided to invest in a high-quality brand, the panels are very practical, keep in mind that these panels will be expensive to buy. Solar power is like buying a car: not everyone loves Porsche! Unfortunately, if you want to save and buy cheap solar panels, your system can produce less electricity within its lifetime, lowering your total cost. Only you, as the parent can know for sure.
What is the inverter of choice?
It is the function of the solar power system inverter to convert solar energy into something you can use. Solar panels convert solar energy into direct movement. The function of the inverter is to convert this DC power into alternating current (AC) that can be used in your home.
There are two common types of inverters:
Direct inverters are the cheapest option for solar power system. If your system offers the perfect design environment, they are usually a good choice for your home. If your solar panel system is equipped with a cable inverter, all your panels feed on an inverter with all the continuous power they generate. The inverter then converts the DC power to AC power, and your solar power is then ready for use.
AC micro-inverter and DC power optimizer solar systems are usually more expensive, but can also perform more efficiently. It is a good choice if your solar system system can be slightly shaded if it cannot be placed in a good corner. When using microinverters, each pan has its own inverter to convert the power it generates and send it to your home. Power optimizers, like microinverters, are also installed on each pan, but the power optimizers are connected to the inverter cable. The power optimizer “state” is the power, which helps to convert DC to AC and then send it to the inverter.
What are the other criteria to consider when choosing a solar panel?
The choice of a solar panel is never to be taken lightly… Indeed, with an installation that will remain for years, choosing the right solar panels for your home is essential. Beyond the other aspects that we have been able to present to you here, the solar panels must also be selected according to their power. Generally, it is estimated that a good model of solar panel has a power of at least 330 Wp. However, it will be quite possible for you to find much more efficient models of photovoltaic panels, up to a power of 500 Wp.
In addition, the dimensions of the solar panels must be taken into account, especially in the event that you want to install as many of them as possible on the roof of your house. Thus, you will have to find the right balance between solar panels which are a little bulkier, and other solar panels that take up less space but which remain excellent in their energy production. Finally, even if solar panels are often renowned for their quality, make sure that they have a guarantee of at least 12 years.
How to choose the right installer?
Choose your paneles solares colombia installer is one of the most important factors in your solar installation! When choosing a solar installer, you should review their certifications, licenses, track record, and market reputation.
Check that the company is correctly registered with the BCE (crossroads bank for companies) with the correct NACE code.
More importantly, a good installer will be an effective partner ready to help you go solar. Whichever installer you use, don’t be afraid to ask questions throughout the installation.
How much do solar panels cost?
The cost of solar panels varies depending on the size and type of system. Solar tiles are generally more expensive than traditional panels. Prices, however, have come down in recent years, due to advances in solar energy technology. An average household needs a 4 kW solar system. This solar panel will cost between 4500 and 7000 euros and will cover approximately 20 square meters of your roof.
