How Solar Works. True, Straight Forward EducationThe basic functioning of a Saskatchewan solar energy system is converting sun energy into electric power. The sun generates two types of energy: heat and electricity. Photovoltaic solar panels convert sun rays into electric energy or power. Here at Saskatoon Solar explain how solar energy works in 5 steps.
1. Capturing Solar EnergySolar panels capture sunlight and convert solar energy into electric power. Solar manufacturers manufacture solar panels using three semiconductors. These are thin-film solar cells, polycrystalline silicon, and mono-crystalline silicon. Upon hitting the semi-conductive material's thin layer, sunlight triggers the release of electrons from the silicon atoms. The positively charged cell side attracts the negatively charged electrons. This photovoltaic effect is due to the free-flowing electrons in the solar panel. An electric current emerges from the moving electrons, which the solar panels' wiring harnesses to generate electricity. This system generates more electric energy when more sunlight reaches the solar panels. Thus, the panels produce the maximum amount of electric power during the peak sun hours when they receive the highest sunlight concentration.
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2. Converting DC to ACThe electricity from solar panels is in direct current form, meaning it follows in a single direction. However, home appliances require alternating current electricity, meaning power flows in two directions. Therefore, your solar energy system must convert solar electricity from DC to AC to ensure your appliances can use it. That's where solar inverters come in handy. The solar inverter you choose for your home depends on your system's configuration and size. Simple solar systems use a string inverter, but intricate units require microinverters, with each panel having its own. Depending on your energy needs, you can also have a hybrid inverter or power optimizer.
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3. Electric Power Distribution
Buildings that include homes account for 18% of greenhouse gas emissions in Canada. The Canada Greener Homes Grant aims to help homeowners make where they live more energy-efficient by combating climate change and establishing local green supply chains. Also, it aims to create solar energy advisors’ jobs in Canada. Through this initiative, homeowners can get 700,000 grants of a maximum of $5,000. This amount can help them make more energy-efficient home retrofits, including improved insulation. EnerGuide also provides expert advice and evaluations of up to $600. Thus, eligible participants can get up to $5,6000 through this initiative.
4. Excess Energy StorageSolar battery storage maximizes the benefits of installing a solar system in your home. If your system generates excess solar energy, your solar battery can store it. Thus, you will have electricity during a rainy day or when the sun sets. Therefore, you will avoid drawing electric power from the local power grid, lowering your electric bills. Depending on the solar batteries you choose, you can store extra DC electricity from the solar panels or AC electricity that your inverter has already converted.
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5. Measuring Production and Usage
You can install electric meter monitors to measure solar energy production and usage. These meters monitor the net usage or the difference between the electricity the solar panels generate and the amount your home consumes from the grid. Going solar reduces your electric consumption from the grid, saving you money since you will pay the utility company a lot less.
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Installing a home solar energy system enables you to lower utility bills, boost your independence from the local electricity grid, reduce your carbon footprint, and participate in creating a clean energy future.