Solar-powered Muscle Car
Source: Flickr
Image: Matthew Hurst
Explosive growth - that's the term currently being bandied about regarding the U.S. solar industry's record-shattering year in 2013, which will no doubt be eclipsed in 2014. A 41% increase over 2012 by GTM Research and Solar Energy Industry Association (SEIA). 2013 came to a close with 440,000 operating solar electric systems across the U.S., bringing totals to more than 12,000 MW of PV and 918 MW of CSP. Solar is officially the fastest-growing source of renewable energy. In the last 18 months, more solar has been installed in the U.S. than in the 30 previous years combined. There are five types of solar panels primarily used in the U.S.
Monocrystalline Silicon (mono-silicon or single silicon)
Source: Flickr
Image: yellowcloud
Silicon is the chemical element of atomic number 14, a nonmetal with semiconducting properties, used in making electronic circuits. Monocrystalline silicon currently are the most efficient type of solar panels, when sunlight hits these panels, more of it is transformed into electricity than in any other type. The high silicon content also makes them more expensive, but fewer of them are required, making them ideal for rooftops.
Polycrystalline Silicon
24 modules in rural Mongolia
Source: Google Images
Image: Wikipedia
These panels have lower silicon levels than mono-silicon panels. Generally, this characteristic makes them more cost-efficient to produce, but they're also slightly less efficient. They're also suitable for rooftops.
Thin Film Amorphous Silicon
Walmart in Mountainview, California
Source: Flickr
Image: Walmart
Thin film panels are costly to produce and perform best in very hot climates. Unfortunately, it's not nearly as efficient as the two types of panels previously mentioned. They're better suited for large solar farm projects where land is available and are not used as frequently on rooftops.
BIPV (building integrated photovoltaics)
West Hollywood, California
Source: Flickr
Image: Limelightpower
BIPVs look similar to roofing tiles, like solar shingles. However, they're more expensive and less efficient than other types of photovoltaic cells. Also, evidence suggests they may not last as long either.
Solar Hot Water Panels (thermal)
Source: Flickr
Image: Jojodia.Saket
Solar thermal panels produce hot water for residential uses such as swimming pools. Some systems may also provide heat and air conditioning. Optimal positioning and adequate air flow must be considered when installing all types of solar panels. Direction, angle and shading of the roof are all equally important factors. As is the fact that Northern Hemisphere rooftop units should be installed facing south, where possible, to maximize sun exposure.
Next week we'll discuss the benefits of passive solar power.
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