As solar power installers in Orange County, California, we’re excited to prepare the state for a new, greener future. However, it’s essential to know what’s being installed. After all, if this is the future of Californians’ power, along with electric vehicles, it’s helpful information. What are solar panels, and what are solar panel materials?
Let’s first look at solar panels and how they work on a fundamental level.
What Are Solar Panels?
A solar panel is a piece of hardware that converts sunlight into energy. Solar panels go by a few names, like photovoltaic and solar cell panels.
So how do solar cell panels use sunlight to power businesses and homes everywhere? Let’s examine the various materials found in basic solar cell panels.
Solar Panel Materials
What are solar panels made of? A few primary components.
- Metal Frame
- Silicon Solar Cells
- Glass
- Junction Box
- Backsheet
How do all these solar panel materials make up a working solar cell panel? It’s time to examine how disparate materials combine and produce valuable, clean energy.
How Do Solar Panels Work?
Now that we know the materials involved in manufacturing solar panels, how do these modern marvels work? It’s a straightforward process, thanks to talented solar panel installers. There’s a lot of science involved. But luckily, you don’t need an advanced degree to grasp the concepts. It’s simpler than you may think.
Using photons from the sun, these photovoltaic systems take photons and convert them into electricity. The sun hits the surface and converts solar power through its silicon semiconductors.
These materials combine to create one solar panel with two types of semiconductors. These are the negative (n-type) and positive (p-type).
When combining the layers of p-type and n-type semiconductors, the sun frees electrons to convert photons into energy at the solar panel’s pole. In short, these materials work together to create a clean, efficient way of collecting energy to power a building and appliances.
The solar panels convert direct current (DC) from the sun’s energy into alternating current (AC) through the panel’s inverter. Thanks to different mounting systems, solar cell panels can even follow the trajectory of the sun to maximize energy collection. By default, solar cell panels should face south.
And don’t worry, the electricity stored by solar cell panels will power your home or business at night.
Since the 1950s, when manufacturers created the first solar cell panel, consumers have been reaping the benefits of solar cell panels. Speaking of which, what are the main benefits of adopting solar power in California?
The Benefits of Solar Panels
Solar panels provide clean energy to help you run your business or home more efficiently, and solar panels also significantly raise property value.
Solar cell panels also help you save money, promote a cleaner environment, and become an early investor in a lucrative source of electricity.
Save On Cost, Save On Power
Thanks to Southern California Edison, adopting solar power for your commercial business or home saves you money on utilities.
The company covers all infrastructure costs when installing EV chargers and solar panels. This is a fantastic boon to car dealerships, hotels, and property owners. Plus, you’re saving on utility costs. Once a solar panel system is in place, you can build credit with SCE by producing excess power. In short, it’s a win-win.
Renewable, Clean Energy
It’s no secret that adopting solar cell panels reduces carbon emissions and promotes a cleaner future.
The only potential downside to solar cell panels is their manufacturing. The manufacturing process creates carbon dioxide.
However, it’s minuscule compared to the reduction in harmful greenhouse gasses. Compared with fossil fuels, it’s no contest.
Plus, solar cell panels are incredibly efficient, showing minimal wear and tear over decades. This lack of degradation helps incentivize solar panel installation in Orange County.
Installing solar panels in Orange County right now is a sound investment that will pay off within only a few years.
A Good Investment
Now is the time to invest in solar cell panels, as the federal tax credit may expire unless Congress renews it. The federal tax credit for solar power makes your income tax less expensive overall, saving you money immediately.
There are a few base requirements to apply for the federal tax credit. For example, the building must be in the United States, and the beneficiary must own the building using solar cell panels.
Additionally, each U.S. state has solar power incentives for business owners looking to install different types of solar panels. For example, solar cell panels in California will allow early adopters to take advantage of the 26% federal tax credit. Unfortunately, in 2023, the 26% drops to 22%. And, barring a renewal by the government, it will expire soon.
That being said, California, fortunately, has one of the most lucrative solar tax credits in the entire country. That’s why it’s essential to convert to solar power sooner rather than later.
Solar Panel Installers In Orange County, California
With REPOWER Orange, Orange County residents, and business owners can greatly benefit from solar panels and EV chargers.
Not only do we take care of all the red tape and permits, but we walk you through the solar panel installation process. Plus, we’ll meticulously go over how a solar power system will work at your place of business or home.
Do you have any questions about solar panel materials or installers near you in Orange County? Drop us a line and start saving money and producing your own solar energy today!
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