Solar Panels Los Angeles
Solar panels are the result of over 120 years of research by scientists and engineers including Albert Einstein. Solar Panels offer a safe, reliable and affordable alternative to traditional methods of electrical generation. Easy to install, good for the environment and guaranteed for decades, a solar powered generating system is a decidedly wise choice. Find a certified and experienced solar panels Los Angeles contractor to start conserving resources.
What Are Solar Panels?
Photovoltaic modules, also known as solar panels, are the heart of any direct solar-powered generating system. Designed to convert sunlight directly into electricity, solar panels, elegantly conceived and superbly engineered, are true wonders of modern technology.
Solar panels, themselves, are typically comprised of an interconnected series of photovoltaic, or PV, cells although in some systems the cells are connected in parallel. In both cases, sunlight strikes these cells and electricity is induced by the photovoltaic effect.
How Are Solar Panels Made?
Various manufacturing processes are used to emplace and electrically connect the PV cells in solar panels. One method is to deposit the photoactive layer, or cell, on a rigid sheet of glass, connect the cells in the same process and then laminate the entire structure with a second pane of glass. The cells themselves are constructed of various light sensitive metals or alloys with each one having a slightly different affinity for a specific range of light frequencies.
The photons in the ambient light strike these cells, are captured and then converted to electricity. Current conversion rates are in the 20% - 25% range making solar power eminently cost effective. In addition, tracking modules are employed in many systems. These modules physically rotate and tilt the solar panels to achieve optimal exposure to the incoming sunlight thus increasing their nominal efficiency and allowing greater daily output.
Is L.A. Suitable for Solar Panels?
An important consideration in choosing a solar powered generating system is the locale. The Los Angeles metro area is blessed with an average of 263 days of sunshine per year, that is to say, days of complete sunshine. Bear in mind that, on the other days, it does not usually rain the entire day. Effectively, L.A. has 310 days of usable sunlight. Combine this fact with the ever increasing cost of electricity in the City of Angels and a very compelling argument can be made for investing in a solar powered generating system.
Lifespan and Guaranties on Solar Panels?
Another consideration is that solar panels are exposed to the worst that Mother Nature has to offer. Comprised of high-end, sensitive electronic components, solar panels must weather rain, hail, wind and, obviously, heat. Notwithstanding the beating that most solar panels will receive, manufacturers confidently offer long term guarantees on their products. Typically, solar panels are guaranteed to maintain 90% of maximum output for 10 years and 80% for 25 years. Rest assured that an investment in solar panels will pay dividends for years.
Economics of Solar Panels
Ultimately, the consumer must weigh the various costs of installation and maintenance of a solar powered system against the almost certain rise in cost of traditionally generated electricity. In the long term, solar panels offer a very affordable option versus coal, oil or natural gas. In addition, the benefits to one's family and neighbors, and to the planet as a whole, is incalculable. Solar power is truly worth the investment.
