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What are Solar Panels?

The sun is an infinitely renewable and pollution-free source of electricity. With advancement in technology and availability of solar energy applications, it is now possible to convert sunlight relatively easily, directly into electricity, without any harmful emissions. This is possible by merely using solar panels.

The Complete Photovoltaics (PV) System

This consist of the following primary components,

  1. Solar Cell: A semiconductor device which converts sunlight into direct current (DC).
  2. Module: PV modules are a packaged and connected assembly of solar cells. These consists of many solar cells wired in parallel to increase current and in series to produce a higher voltage.
  3. Solar Panel: These includes pre-wired PV modules assembled as a field-installable unit
  4. Array: A PV array is a linked collection of solar panels, functioning as the complete power-generating unit
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Solar Panels and how they function

Solar panels are a combination of solar cells commonly in rectangular shapes, and used to convert sunlight into electricity. They are designed to absorb the sun’s rays as a source of renewable energy for the purpose of generating electricity or heat. The solar panels are also called photovoltaics, which basically means ‘electricity from sunlight’.

The most relevant part of a solar panel is the solar cell. It consists of single or multiple layers of silicon based semiconductor wafers. These cells generate electrical charge using photovoltaic effect. This effect produces voltage from photons whenever the cells are struck by sunlight. They are also responsible for producing a steady electrical current. This is achieved when the change in magnetic charge created from the sun hits that panels and is multiplied thousands of times in every cell.

These PV cells are packed in to solar modules, which are again packed in to solar panels. These panels are mounted usually on the rooftop to maximise the exposure to direct sunlight. The electricity generated by the solar cells is direct current (DC) and needs to be transformed into alternating current (AC), which is done through an inverter. Only AC is used by appliances and the local utility electricity distribution grid. Inverters can also provide data (performance) monitoring for the solar system and related services. Additionally, the electricity produced by these panels is integrated seamlessly in the existing electricity system, which means that when the level of sunshine changes there is no change to the system eg nobody has to worry about the lights dimming in the absence of sunlight.

Silicon in Solar Panels

Silicon has some special chemical properties, especially in its crystalline form. Solar panels are a series of interconnected silicon cells, framing a circuit for an efficient electricity production system.  The silicon used in all the cells is highly processed to reach the metallurgical grade.

The necessary structure for highly efficient solar cells is pure crystalline silicon. The silicon in the cells can be arranged into monocrystalline, polycrystalline, amorphous silicon or hybrid structure.

Energy Production and Solar Panels

The power generated by a solar system greatly depends on its size. The solar panels are rated according to the DC electricity produced under standard test conditions. A normal solar panel is capable of producing about 330 W of electricity (approx 1000mm by 1600mm). Additionally, solar panels produce more electricity in summer, in comparison to other seasons. There are many external factors which decide the energy production and efficiency of the solar panels,

  • Solar panel pitch and orientation – Solar tracking systems may work in such conditions however their cost vs extra return is generally not warranted
  • Temperature – Higher temperatures reduce the panel efficiency
  • Shading – Avoid shading for maximum power output
  • Component efficiency
  • Irradiance and insolation
  • Location! Location!
  • Front face soiling – Cleanliness increases the efficiency and absorption capacity of solar cells

Solar power is ideal for Australian conditions and Velocity Solar provides efficient solar solutions to make your energy consumption highly environment friendly and sustainable. For further details, call us on  03 5243 8364.

Our Residential Solar System Installation Process

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STEP 1:

Free Consultation

One of our CEC Accredited Designers will come to your home, we analyse your power usage history and your current plan. Our goal is to understand what you want and expect in a system. We then use this information to formulate the best solar system for your property and budget, keeping future requirements in mind. Our philosophy is ‘Do it once and do it right’.

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STEP 2:

Solar System Design

While at your property we will physically inspect and measure your roof to make sure it will be suitable for the solar system we will recommend. We will make sure your switchboard is capable of hosting the solar system and discuss suitable locations for panel, inverter and potential battery placememt.

While at your property we will physically inspect and measure your roof to make sure it will be suitable for the solar system we will recommend. We will make sure your switchboard is capable of hosting the solar system and discuss suitable locations for panel, inverter and potential battery placememt.

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STEP 3:

Quotation

Our location visit will allow us to gather all the relevant information in order for us to give you a comprehensive and tailored solar solution. Choosing a solar energy system for your home is a big deicision which is why we make it our business to provide you with clear and personalised informatio so that you can make the best decision for you. We are here to answer your questions and make the solar system purchase as clear and simple as possible.

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STEP 4:

Approvals & rebates

There are a number boxes that need to ticked in order for your new solar system to work. Power companies need notification, forms for Government rebates need to be completed. Our dedicated admin team are here to help and we make this process as simple and painfree for customers as possible.

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STEP 5:

Installation

Once all approvals and pre-approvals are completed and your deposit is received, we can set a date to installation. Most installations tend to be completed in one day.

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STEP 6:

Connect to Grid

The approval process will have meant we already know we can connect your new solar system in to the power network. We’ll explain all you need to know about the process of connecting to the power grid and take care of the back end work for you.

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STEP 7:

Monitoring & Training

In keeping with being transparent about the whole process, we will set-up the monitoring of your solar system and train you in how to read and understand the information.

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STEP 8:

Maintenance

Solar systems save money, and require on going maintenance to ensure your system stays safe and works at optimal performance.

We check in with you one year after your install and complete a FREE on-site audit to ensure:

• Your electricity plan is providing you value

• Your system performance is on track

• Your solar system still meets our high safety standards

• Your wifi monitoring of the system is still in place

• Answer any questions you may have

• Provide recommendations for any ongoing maintenance requirements

Residential Solar System Gallery

Get in contact with us today so we can book a time to do your free in-house consultation.

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