One thing that often holds business owners back from installing solar panels is simply a lack of operational understanding. How does it all work? Is the system reliable/consistent?
Hopefully the below answers some of those questions:
Solar panels work by converting sunlight into electricity. They are made up of photovoltaic (PV) cells, which are typically made from silicon. When sunlight hits the PV cells, it knocks electrons loose from their atoms, creating a flow of electricity.
Here’s how it works step-by-step:
Sunlight hits the solar panel, which is made up of layers of silicon and other materials.
The sunlight causes the electrons in the silicon to become “excited” and break free from their atoms.
These free electrons create a flow of electricity, which is captured by wires embedded in the solar panel.
The electricity generated by the solar panel is direct current (DC) electricity, which is not suitable for use in most buildings.
An inverter is used to convert the DC electricity to alternating current (AC electricity), which is the type of electricity that will work for your business.
The AC electricity is then sent to an electrical panel, where it can be used to power machinery, lights, and other electrical devices.
The efficiency and reliability of solar PV systems (and the individual panels) has significantly increased over the past few years. The technology is more readily available – meaning it’s more affordable, and it’s become refined enough to generate significant power even in overcast conditions. The average solar PV installation will have a lifespan of 20+ years and can pay itself off in as little as 3 years (giving your business 17+ years of free electricity!).
Overall, solar panels are a clean, renewable source of electricity that can be used to reduce your business’s reliance on fossil fuels and will significantly bolster your sustainability credentials (something that your customers, clients and partners are very much looking for!).
The great news is that we’re experts at installing these systems, plus we’re happy to give your business a free consultation outlining exactly what you may be able to save financially and from a carbon perspective over the next 20 years!
You can contact us here to start the chat or download our solar brochure for more information.
