SOLAR PANELS WOW

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. Some scientists call them photovoltaics which means, basically, "light-electricity."

Figure from NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory Deep Space One Web Site: http://nmp.jpl.nasa.gov/ds1/

A solar panel is a collection of solar 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, so spacecraft are usually designed with solar panels that can always be pointed at the Sun even as the rest of the body of the spacecraft moves around, much as a tank turret can be aimed independently of where the tank is going.

DS1's solar cells are even more efficient than regular solar panels made for satellites because they use solar concentrators.

Here are just a few they are all very different yet very helpful

Solar panels are eco-friendly electric generators. They convert sunlight into electrical energy. Solar panels have no moving parts, put out zero emissions and require very little maintenance. Most panels have a life expectancy of 25 to 30 years or more. As an added bonus, they will generate free electricity the whole time with no bills or hidden fees included.

History
- Solar cells convert sunlight into electricity.
  
  Solar panels use photovoltaic cells (solar cells) to convert sunlight into electricity. According to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), the PV effect was discovered in 1954 when scientists at Bell Telephone discovered that silicon (an element found in sand) created an electrical charge when exposed to sunlight.
Types of Solar Panels
- Placing solar panels on your roof is a sure way to make electricity.
  
  Solar panel cells usually consist of monocrystilline or polycrystalline cells. Monocrystilline cells are typically part of more expensive panels and convert more sunlight into electricity than polycrystalline cells. Spending a little more on your solar panel can pay off in the long run.
Solar Power Benefits
- Sunshine is a solar panel's best friend. All you need are sun rays and the electricity will begin to flow. Since the amount of sunlight varies around the world, it is essential to know many hours of good peak hours of sunlight your area receives. That's why position is key when mounting panels on the roof. If positioned in a good location (during the winter or summer months), you should have no problems. Many governments are now offering solar panel rebates to help individuals who invest in solar power.
Eco-friendly Electricity
- Modern-day living seems to go hand and hand with electricity. Solar panels produce no greenhouse emissions, so they assist in slowing down global warming. It's a great way to utilize clean renewable energy. At a time where everyone is opting to go green to conserve planet Earth, you can rest assured that by using solar panels you would greatly help to reduce your carbon footprint.
Considerations
- The world need more clean energy resources. In remote locations of the world, people can use solar panels to supply solar energy to places where electricity is scarce. Since the maintenance is low, a simple wipe down is all they really need to prevent buildup of dust and grime. If more people and governments all over the world begin to invest in the use of solar panels, the Earth would begin to become a much cleaner planet.