In the days when scientists first began to experiment with solar energy, the technology was far too expensive and flawed to offer any practical applications. Photovoltaic cells were extremely inefficient, both in their collection of the sun’s rays and in their distribution of energy. Great strides have been made since that time, making solar power a beneficial alternative to other energy sources.
Photovoltaic cells are typically made of layers of silicon, a highly conductive material. These cells, which are available in a variety of shapes and sizes are most often seen in the form of panels or tiles affixed on the roofs of structures. PV cells collect solar rays and convert them to electricity. They send the electricity throughout a structure, powering any electrical fixtures and appliances they are connected to.
Contrary to those of the past, modern Solar Panels Hawaii are capable of collecting energy from the sun on cloudy days and during winter months when the sun’s rays are at their weakest. Any unused energy is stored until it is needed, making solar energy useful year round.
Unlike traditional electricity and other energy sources, energy collected via Solar Panels Hawaii produces no negative environmental side effects, making this a completely green technology. The sun provides an unlimited supply of energy, so users of solar power need not worry about depletion of resources. After the initial cost of solar panel installation, solar energy is free to use; therefore, those taking advantage of solar energy see a dramatic reduction in, or even elimination of, their energy bills.
Government programs offer several incentives to those using solar energy including tax rebates to help cover the cost of converting to photovoltaics and feed-in tariffs to actually pay users for the solar electricity they generate. Unused solar electricity can also be sold to local power grids.
Solar panels are now commonly used in schools, industrial and medical facilities and homes throughout the world. Advances in solar technology have made this power source a practical, inexpensive and reliable resource for use in countless applications. In addition to reducing the cost of energy, solar energy can be a source of supplemental income for those using it.
