The University of Future Energy - Solar 101
As renewable enthusiasts we love everything about solar. You can use the all-powerful sun on your roof or backyard, and wow, you’ve got power!
Even we sometimes take the science of it for granted. So, this month we take a look at what goes into the solar systems you may see popping up over the neighbourhoods.
What is Solar Power and How Does it Work?
Solar Power typically refers to photovoltaic (PV) solar panels that convert sunlight, through clever silicon wafers, to Direct Current (DC) electricity.
This electricity runs to an Inverter where the DC electricity is converted into Alternating Current (AC) electricity, which powers everyday homes and businesses.
PV technology is now settled with panel manufacturers competing to increase efficiency and reduce the price, which has fallen dramatically in the last five years.
What is a Grid-Connected (or tied) Solar Power Systems?
Simply; you have your own power (solar) system on your roof or backyard while maintaining a connection to the electrical “grid”. The electrical grid is a series of complex networks across the country to make sure every building is connected to power.
Getting your own solar power system is a cost-effective way to enter solar. Assuming you can maximise your daytime usage, when the sun is shining, solar power currently offers the best return on investment. When looking to maximise your budget and future-proof your systems, it looks like this is the way to go!
These systems will export any excess solar power to the grid when you’re not using your generation, returning a small credit from the energy retailers. Future Energy has a terrific partnership with a Tier 1 retailer offering industry-leading export rates. Getting a small credit from the energy retailers will help to offset your energy, or power, bill at the end of your pay period.
Something that might not be common knowledge: it is sunlight, or irradiance, which produces electricity in the PV cells, not the heat from the sunlight.
What About Batteries, Can I Store My Generation?
That is a great question! Yes, top of the class, you can!
The latest in lithium iron phosphate batteries store excess generation to be used at a later stage, like when the sun goes down or on a rainy day! You’ll also be safe in power outages with essential loads powered by the battery if the grid drops. If you’re living in a rural area and can be impacted by a heavy storm, this would come as a huge relief.
Solar power technology has come a long way recently with the latest batteries providing excellent capacity, lifecycles, and discharge rates.
Great, so now we know how it works! But what are the benefits of all of this cleverness and trickery?!
1. Solar Significantly Reduces Your Monthly Power Bills.
The sun’s energy and light is converted into electricity that is used to power your home. All your plugged-in devices or heating and lighting systems will use the ‘free’ energy generated from your solar system first. If your home requires more power then you can draw it from the grid. All of this put together means huge savings towards your energy bills!
2. You’ll Never Waste Your Solar Energy.
No waste, no worry! Because the solar systems are connected to the grid, all the power your solar system generates will be used to power your home. Any excess power generated will be exported to the grid for a credit. If you’ve got a battery, even better! Store it and save it for later.
3. You’ll Have Control Over Your Energy.
Having a solar system puts you in charge of your home power. Being in charge of what you ‘produce’ by using solar power, it enables you to be less dependent on unpredictable power suppliers and allows you to become ‘energy independent’. This means you are able to see how you use power in your home. If there is a storm, a power cut, or simply a scheduled outage, if you have a battery, you will still have power.
4. Solar Adds Value to Your Home.
If you sell your home one day, then solar can make your home more desirable to potential buyers. People are leaning towards being more sustainable and thinking about the future, especially in our clean and green New Zealand. See our blog here on some facts and figures regarding property prices increases attributable to solar.
5. Solar Makes for a More Sustainable Future
Solar energy is one of the best sustainable energy options on the market. Not only does it utilise the completely free power source of the amazing sun, but it also does not emit any harmful carbons like fossil fuels. This dependable energy source makes for a greener and cleaner future.
Solar power has so many benefits that, to us, significantly outweigh any negatives! Not only does it save you money in the long run, solar power systems add value to your home, and help protect your family against any mishaps found on the main electrical grid.
If you’re ready to graduate to a sustainable electricity system give our Energy Professors a call on 0800 338 363 or click here!