Also known as PV panels, solar panels are used to convert light from the sun, which is composed of particles of energy called "photons", into electricity that can be used to power electrical loads.
Solar panels can be used for a wide variety of applications including remote power systems, telecommunications equipment, remote sensing, and of course for the production of electricity by residential and commercial solar electric systems.
Thanks to Zambia's naturally sunny weather, many business owners and individuals have resorted to getting solar back up systems in case of power deficits that may occur in the country.
How solar panels work
When photons hit a solar cell, they knock electrons loose from their atoms. If conductors are attached to the positive and negative sides of a cell, it forms an electrical circuit. When electrons flow through such a circuit, they generate electricity. Multiple cells make up a solar panel, and multiple panels (modules) can be wired together to form a solar array. The more panels you can deploy, the more energy you can expect to generate.
Buy solar panels here
Zambian suppliers in this category supply well-known and respected brands and offer maintenance and training services as well. The brands featured come in a variety of sizes and power ratings.
The Two Types of Solar Energy.
Photovoltaic solar technology, which directly converts sunlight into electricity. using panels made of semiconductor cells.
Solar thermal technology, which captures the sun's heat.
Solar panels come in a standard 1.70m x 1.0m, with an output that ranges from 250 to 340 watts. The variation in output will usually not change the size of a single solar panel. The standard size of a 250W solar panel is approximately 1.7m x 1.0m, with slight variations depending on the manufacturer.
A hybrid solar system is grid-tied with battery storage. They come with a special 'smart' inverter that can transmit direct current (DC) power to and from your batteries, and channel alternating current (AC) power between the grid and your home when necessary.
The most efficient solar panel for homes is a monocrystalline (mono) panel. These panels, made of silicon crystal, have the highest efficiency, falling between 15% and 22%. Thanks to the technological advancements in the solar industry, mono panels can generate more power using smaller panels with half-cells
