Solar Tech Basics
Basic Solar Power Technology
Solar power technology harnesses energy from the sun to generate electricity. The system absorbs photons from sunlight, exciting electrons and creating an electric current. While the majority of research and development has been focused on improving this conversion process to make it more efficient and cost effective, there is more to consider for good solar energy system design.
Here are the basics for power generation and the other factors which play a big role in the financial returns on your solar energy investment:
Generating Electricity from Solar Energy
Solar Cells
Solar Panels
Solar Inverters
Mounting the Solar Energy System
Rooftop Solar Racking
It is most cost effective to mount a solar energy system on the rooftop. Provided there is adequate space and support, this method uses the least materials, generally gives the least obstructed position towards the sunlight, and is therefore more cost efficient.
Elevated Canopy Mounting
Mounting solar panels elevated on a canopy is a preferred and effective way to get all the economic and solar savings benefits while continuing to maintain full use of the ground below. Solar canopies are most popular over parking areas, and they are occasionally installed over public use areas such as walkways and eating spaces.
Ground Mounting
Ground mounting a solar energy system is an option only when there is sufficient open space, and that space is close enough to the demand to make it economical. Most often this is chosen when the existing roofing structure or style is insufficient to roof mount a system.
At Cabral Solar, we are always operating with a “customer first” approach. In every stage of the EPC project process, we communicate the essential progress to each client and consult and advise whenever key decisions are needed.