Solar PV Module

Solar panels/modules essentially work like a car battery charger, except instead of plugging it into the wall, you put it out directly in the sun. How do solar modules work, and why should you consider an off grid-power system?

Photo-Voltaic or solar cells convert sunlight directly to electricity within wafer thin cells. Light “particles” called photons actually bounce electrons across a barrier, creating an electrical current. This allows you to produce solar power for home use.

Cells are sealed within a tough resin between a tempered glass front and plastic or foil backing, and then framed in aluminum rail. There are many sizes and brands of solar modules for off grid solar power systems, at similar prices, specifications, and claims.

Sunshine
Direct Sunshine with no shadows is absolutely necessary for full power when using solar to power your home. Partial power is produced on overcast days, but any shadows falling directly on a solar module will reduce power to a home solar electric system, regardless of what some advertisements claim.

Power Production
The amount of power a solar array produces depends on the number of modules you use and the number of daily sunshine hours in your climate. Overcast days with only half normal brightness give half of normal power. Some climates allow much more power in summer than winter. Solar modules for off grid solar systems can easily be added to your array to increase power as your needs grow. Solar panels are rated by watts, volts, and amps. The Watt rating is the best indicator of the charging you get and is what you will see on your meter during ideal sun conditions.