Solar Panels on Sale
One of the most talked about methods of obtaining energy now being discussed throughout the world is the use of photovoltaic panels. Being able to capture natural energy from the sun has many environmental advantages, as well as saving money for individuals, cities, counties and states. Since they are relatively expensive, looking for solar panels on sale is a good idea.
Studies have shown that the power of the sun on the earth for just one day is enough to provide energy needs of the world for one year. This is overpowering when you think of how many homes, businesses, industrial plants, and governments need energy to operate. When this potential was realized, progress began in earnest to harness this power and eliminate dependence on fossil fuels and also to lower energy costs.
At the current time, the sun's energy is captured mainly through an array of cells known as photovoltaic cells. When the sun directly hits the cells, there is a reaction that produces an electrical current. It is considered a renewable energy source as it can be used as long as the sun exists.
There are two types of solar panels. They are passive and active. The passive solar type does not require any mechanical parts and, in most cases, is built in. This would include things such as large windows that face the sun, storage tanks and other such things. This type of solar energy is primarily to obtain heat, not electricity. The panels that you see on top of buildings or in large grids are the active type. They are designed to provide electricity to a unit where it can be stored in batteries built for this purpose. It changes direct current into alternating current and any excess can be transferred back to the electric company.
The expense of the current solar panels has been due to the shortage of high-purity silicon which is the main material used in their production. Originally, the price of this vital material was $300,000 per ton. However, it is predicted that by 2015 there will be a 10-fold increase in its production, lowering the price.
Polysilicon cells make up approximately 45 percent of the panel's manufacturing costs. Recently the price of polysilicon, which is vital in manufacturing solar panels, has fallen somewhat and therefore, the cost of manufacturing has also been reduced. In early 2008, the cost per kilogram was $500 and has now fallen to about $70 per kilogram.
At the current time, China controls the world market in the manufacture of solar cells. However, the United States has developed new manufacturing plants in a number of states and expects to produce a large number of devices. This will help make them less expensive for the American public. Fortunately, the government is helping in developing more affordable panels in their program to promote a 'green' environment.
One of the ways the price has been reduced is with the development of the thin-film cell/module design. This process is done by using a transparent conductive oxide glass-coating called TCO. It has been found that this increases the panel's efficiency while reducing the material costs.
In another effort to reduce the price, a highly reflective white laminate foil is being used. This foil has been found to be highly effective in improving the sun's reflection as well as increasing the efficiency of the photovoltaic devices. Previously white paint was used, which slowed the manufacturing process by requiring two steps instead of one. This process has also been found to increase productivity of energy.
This method of using silicon to increase energy has had great advantages. Not only does it require less of the scarce product, than traditional methods, but it is environmentally friendly and is composed of non-toxic substances. In addition, it has the advantage of being available at lower prices. This makes it possible to find solar panels on sale.
Other innovative ideas have emerged with devices using various types of silicon products. Each has contributed to catching more of the sun's energy at a lower manufacturing cost. The best thing about having this kind of energy-producing device is that it will last for years and reduce electric bills considerably. You can still have this wonderful energy-saving piece of equipment if you watch for solar panels on sale.