Solar Solutions for Sustainable Living

What are solar panels?

Solar panels are devices that convert light into electricity. They are called “solar” panels because, most of the time, the most powerful source of light available is the sun, called “Sol” by astronomers. They are also sometimes referred to as “photovoltaics,” which means “light-electricity.”

How do solar panels work?

A solar panel is a collection of solar cells, or photovoltaic cells. Lots of small solar cells spread over a large area can work together to provide enough power to be useful. The more light that hits a cell, the more electricity it produces.

How much do solar panels cost?

The cost varies depending on the model type, the number of panels and where they are installed (rooftop, standalone, etc.). However, in Nigeria, where fuel generators are used as a regular means of generating electricity, a solar solution can pay for itself within a few years with the savings realized through the elimination of the generator. Only initial investment for installing the panels/plant is required because electricity is generated free of cost.

How is solar energy stored?

On cloudy days or at night, the amount of energy your system receives is reduced or eliminated altogether. This in turn impacts the amount of electricity or heat that your system produces during those times. To overcome this drawback, homeowners can take advantage of several methods available to them for storing solar energy.

Why are solar panels necessary?

Solar panels are clean and pollution-free. Solar power is also plentiful and a renewable source of energy that can meet all of Earth’s power needs. Burning fossil fuels, on the other hand, releases large quantities of toxic gases into the atmosphere, thus contributing to greenhouse gases and global warming.

What is the difference between renewable and non-renewable energy?

Renewable energy is energy generated from natural resources – such as sunlight, wind, rain, tides and geothermal heat – which are renewable (naturally replenished).

Non-renewable energy is energy taken from finite resources that will eventually dwindle, that is, energy derived from depletable fuels (oil, gas, and coal), created through lengthy geological processes and existing in limited quantities on the earth. These energy sources are also more expensive over the long term, not to mention environmentally damaging.