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All you need to know about home solar panels

Here are six easy to understand responses to the most commonly asked questions about home solar panels.

By Wayne PorteousPublished 3 years ago 3 min read
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Having difficulty making that final decision about installing home solar panels?

Need to know more about this wonderful piece of money saving technology?

Here are six easy to understand responses to the most commonly asked questions.

Just how do solar panels harness energy from the sun?

Have you ever looked at the solar panels on roofs and wondered exactly what they do, and how?

Well, those hi-tech expanses of shimmering glass are actually just one component in a complex network that harnesses the sun’s renewable energy to deliver electricity to the home within.

The technology behind this system is really quite simple, operating on the same principle as the torch battery, They are made up of two silicone plates; one dipped in phosphorous and the other in boron. This makes one plate positively charged and the other negatively charged.

When sunlight hits the plates it gives the negatively charged electrons enough energy to jump across to the positive side, and the result is electricity - for free!

Will solar panels save me money on my electricity bill?

Solar panels will significantly reduce the amount of electricity charged on your energy bills and save you a considerable amount of money, particularly here in Australia where power prices tend to be exorbitant.

Australia has more sunlight per square metre than anywhere else in the world so it’s obvious, that economically speaking installing solar panels is a “no- brainer”.

The price of solar panels has decreased dramatically in the last few years, making them more affordable and extremely efficient, so much so that they will pay for themselves within a few years.

Why is it that everyone doesn’t have solar panels on their roof?

The fact is that when solar panels first became available they were quite expensive and represented a substantial investment, whereas today they are within the average household budget.

Do they work on days when it is cloudy?

Surprisingly, and contrary to common belief the solar panels will still work on overcast days, as the sun’s energy still makes it to the ground producing around 25% of their usual electricity.

Am I able to store the energy for use at night?

Incredibly, even at night, a modern home solar system can still supply your electricity! In recent years innovative technologies like the Tesla Powerwall Solar Battery, just like normal batteries, can store the surplus energy your panels generate during the day ready for when you need it at night!

Why should I install solar panels?

The installation of solar panels should be regarded as a sound investment in your home and family’s future. You’ll save thousands of dollars over the years on power bills as the initial cost is recouped quite quickly.

You will also be doing your part to reduce the world’s dependency on fossil fuels as this energy source is “clean green”! A great way for you to do your bit to help save the planet.

Currently in South Australia the government is encouraging home owners to go Solar.

The Home Battery Scheme offers home owners $6,000 towards their investment in home solar panels. And the real bonus is - they will also purchase from you any surplus energy that you generate and return it to the grid!

If you ever need to put your house on the market, the panels will add value to your home and make it an extra-attractive acquisition for the home buyer!

Do solar panels require much maintenance?

Solar panels have no moving parts, just a minimal amount of effort will ensure you get the optimal sunlight conversion for years without maintenance. They come with a warranty that covers them for some decades.

The modern solar panels are extremely hardy and the only problem may be the odd tree blocking the sunlight from reaching the panels.

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About the Creator

Wayne Porteous

Wayne uses his expertise with the written word (and crossword addiction) in developing keyword research projects and in editing and writing content for publishing.

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