How do you compare different solar panels? You measure the wattage power per panel. number of Watts Output when it is illuminated under standard conditions of 1000 Watts/meter2 intensity, 25C ambient temperature and a spectrum that relates to sunlight that has passed through the atmosphere.
Solar prices are falling fast, especially with thin-film technology. From early $27 per Watt Peak (Wp) prices to an expected $1 in the near future. At $1 Wp, grid parity will have been achieved in Photovoltaics (PV) and will be able to compete with the prevailing price of electricity.
Essentially, there are 2 types of solar panels. The more expensive kind using crystalline silicon and the new proprietary thin-film technology. CdTe (Cadmium Telluride) is the popular favorite thin-film technology favorite.
CdTe (Cadmium Telluride) permits a low cost production process. Automated high put though production processes have been employed successfully eliminating the need for expensive clean rooms or other specialty equipment.
Thin Firm CdTe (Cadmium Telluride) modules to generate relatively more electricity under high ambient (and therefore high cell) temperatures. Which means it is more efficient should there be high temperatures.
Advanced thin film design produces high energy yield across a wide range of climatic conditions with excellent low light response and temperature response coefficient. Frameless laminate is robust and can take a variety of shapes, is cost effective and recyclable as well.
The measurement of kilowatt-hours per kilowatt installed is an important factor. Calculate the average total solar watt output per dollar outlay. In most cases, when you are reach $0.15/kWh or better, you are competitive with your electric company.
Two 80W panels in series gives you 160 W. You still have the same *current* as you get from one panel, but twice the voltage. There are inverters, battery banks and cabling costs to consider. Most families use between 4 and can run up to 20 Kwh per day for heavy users. A 1000w system would produce about 4 Kwh per day. Build your own solar panel with a do it yourself kit and discover this energy saving technology. |