10-04-2017, 08:09 PM
Q: How do photovoltaics work?
A: Here's a short answer: Sunlight on photovoltaic modules produces direct current (DC) electricity which is converted to alternating current (AC) by a device called an inverter, which is then wired into your main service panel where it feeds your internal power grid. For more details, click here.
Q: I know people that have broken solar panels for their homes. How is this different and why is this more reliable?
A: Good question! The broken solar panels you're referring to are likely solar hot water panels, in many cases date back to President Carter-era tax credits, which President Reagan promptly repealed early in his first term. The resulting slack in demand put many solar hot water panel manufacturers out of business, leaving an unfortunate legacy. Photovoltaic technology is completely different, is for the purposes of making electricity, not heating water, and has a 50+year history of reliable performance. Click here for more on the history of PV technology.
Q: How long will PV modules last?
A: Based on manufacturers' in-field experience and reliability testing, PV modules will probably last longer, and are more reliable than just about any other capital investment for your business. In 2003, BP Solar published the results of their analysis of warranty claims and reported that of more than two million modules in service over nearly ten years, approximately one-tenth of one percent were reported faulty, noting "this represents one module failure for every 4,200 module-years of operation." Put another way, if your system has one thousand modules, you may experience the failure of ten modules in 40 years.
Q: Are there any major advances in technology on the horizon that I should hold out for? (e.g., plastics, nano, thin film, etc.)
A: Unlike the other major use of silicon computer chips photovoltaic technology is not subject to Moore's Law. According to the National Renewable Energy Laboratories, the rate of improvement of achievements in efficiency for crystalline solar cells is less than 1% per year since 1970. Additionally, today s commercially-available PV products efficiency levels were achieved in the laboratory anywhere from 15-20 years ago, indicating the long lag between research gains and commercial product introduction. Net, waiting for a magic solar bullet will probably mean waiting a long time, and paying a lot for electricity in the interim.