Photovoltaic; A Modern Phenomenon?
Well, you may be surprised to find out that observations of the photovoltaic effect have been credited to Alexandre-Edmond Becquerel way back in 1839. The photovoltaic effect is the guiding principal behind the solar cell.
Solar cells convert photons into electrons; the photovoltaic effect is the way in which these electrons are turned into electric currents. Amongst the first modern day applications that the photovoltaic effects principles were put to use was to provide electrical power for satellites as they orbited the Earth. As technology moved on and DC to AC inversion became cheaper, smaller and more accessible solar cell technology was used to provide power for what has come to be known as the "Off- grid" market referring for instance to houses emergency telephones etc. Whilst a single solar cell module is enough for a telephone many, many more modules are required to power a house.
However, Governments of Countries around the World are trying to move away from their reliance on fossil fuel and nuclear energy. Instead they are moving towards greener more renewable energy resources, with grants and subsidies being offered to companies to set up alternative power plants and to individuals to power their homes in a different way. It is more and more commonplace to see rooftops changing from tiles to solar panels.
Solar panels use wafers of crystalline silicon cells or thin-film cells based on cadmium telluride or silicon. The conducting wires that take the current off the panels may contain silver, copper or other conductive (but generally not magnetic) transition metals. Due to the vagaries of the weather solar panels must be able to withstand a wide range of climatic changes from heatwaves to prolonged periods of rain fall and the harsh conditions that icy winters brings. Producers of solar panel modules design their panels with extreme care and back this up with guarantees that electrical production will last for 10 years at 90% of rated power output and 25 years at 80%.
As mentioned previously PV systems are being used by householders in increasing numbers. In 2010 the market research company Pvinsights saw over 177% increase, on a year on year basis, of solar panel installations which totaling in excess of 15 giga watts.
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All images courtesy of EverGen Limited.
EverGen specialises in the installation of Solar PV and other renewable energy systems for commercial and domestic properties.
EverGen work closely with clients and customers to design bespoke solutions to individual energy needs. They understand that every home or property is unique - their service goes far beyond a one-size-fits-all approach.
www.evergen-power.co.uk
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