The large black solar panels benefits you see in homes and businesses are made up of solar cells (or photovoltaic cells) – which are made of silicon semiconductors that convert sunlight into energy. Those solar cells are then connected together to make one solar panel.
In addition to being a renewable and clean source of power, solar panels also help homeowners save money. The savings come from producing their own electricity and not having to pay for it from the electric grid. This is especially true in areas with high utility rates and a long history of escalating prices.
Harnessing the Sun: Exploring the Environmental and Financial Benefits of Solar Panels
Another way to save on your electric bill is through net metering. This is an electric billing tool that allows you to send excess electricity back to the grid for bill credits, or to store it in a battery or electric car. This is particularly helpful if you use more power during the day when the sun is shining, but less during the night when the sun is setting.
When choosing a solar system, you should look at its resale value as well as its performance and longevity. The best solar panels will be backed by companies that offer long warranties to demonstrate confidence in their product. Other important considerations include the degradation rate of the solar panel and its temperature coefficient, which is how much its efficiency drops at higher temperatures. A lower temperature coefficient means that your solar panels will be more efficient over time.