Q:Hi, I am starting to get curious about the pros/cons of installing solar panels - has anyone done it and is it worth it?

Solar is mroe expensive than just about every other form of generation for a centralized plant, but can still be cost-effective for a consumer living in the right place. This is because while a coal-fired plant may produce electricity for 2-3 cents per kWh, by the time it's marked up to retail, distributed, and taxed to get to a residence, it may be 5 cents per kWh - a figure which solar can match in many places.

Q:Can solar panels be used in space?

Yes, solar panels can be used in space. In fact, they are commonly used to power satellites and spacecraft as they can efficiently convert sunlight into electricity even in the absence of an atmosphere.

Q:Can solar panels be damaged by hail?

Yes, solar panels can be damaged by hail. Hailstones, especially larger ones, can cause cracks or dents in the glass surface of solar panels, which may impair their efficiency and performance. It is important to note that the severity of the damage will depend on the size and speed of the hailstones, as well as the quality and durability of the solar panel materials.

Q:Can solar panels be used for powering electric fences?

Yes, solar panels can be used to power electric fences. Solar panels can generate electricity that can be stored in batteries and used to power electric fence systems, providing a reliable and eco-friendly source of energy for the fences.

Q:Can solar panels be installed on community buildings?

Yes, solar panels can be installed on community buildings. Installing solar panels on community buildings is a popular and effective way to generate clean and renewable energy for the community. It not only helps reduce electricity costs but also contributes to a sustainable and eco-friendly environment.

Q:The colder a solar panel gets the more efficient it seems to be. As the panel warms, it loses some efficiency. Why is this so? Please explain in a way you would expect a high school kid to understand it, as I am a high-schooler and i have to explain this to other high-schoolers.

Absolutely temperature matters. So what do higher temperatures do to solar photovoltaic panels? As temperatures rise, the efficiency of solar panels decreases. Heat causes electrical resistance to the flow of electrons. On days where the temperature is more than 75 degrees, the electrical resistance makes the voltage fall thereby producing less kilowatts per hour. Your roof is much hotter than temperatures on the ground. That’s why solar panels are not mounted flat to a roof. There’s usually a few inches of spaces between the panels and roof so air flow can easily pass through and cool the panels down. There are some photovoltaic panels that are designed specifically to operate in hotter temperatures. These panels have a higher temperature coefficient. This is especially important in high heat climates like Arizona or New Mexico, but probably wouldn’t make too much of a difference in New England (except maybe this year). If someone lives in one of these areas, they should speak to a solar installer to make sure they are using they right equipment for their region. Please note: Solar thermal panels used to heat water can withstand high temperatures without any degradation. In fact, hotter temperatures would actually be better for these types of modules.

Q:Are solar panels fire hazards?

Solar panels are generally not considered fire hazards. While there have been some isolated incidents of fires related to solar panels, they are extremely rare and typically caused by faulty installations, damaged equipment, or external factors. When installed properly and maintained regularly, solar panels pose no significant fire risk.

Q:Can solar panels store excess energy?

No, solar panels cannot store excess energy. However, additional equipment such as batteries or energy storage systems can be installed alongside solar panels to store any surplus energy generated for later use.

Q:Can solar panels be used for powering a manufacturing facility?

Yes, solar panels can be used to power a manufacturing facility. Solar panels convert sunlight into electricity, which can be utilized to run various equipment and processes within a manufacturing facility. By installing a sufficient number of solar panels, a manufacturing facility can significantly reduce its reliance on traditional grid electricity and lower its carbon footprint. However, the feasibility and effectiveness of solar panels for powering a manufacturing facility would depend on factors such as the facility's energy requirements, available sunlight, and the size of the solar panel system installed.

Q:Ok Im trying to power my room using solar panels and I've figure out that I need about 700 watts to do so, but I really only use my electronics at night. I was wondering if I could buy lets say a 200 watt solar panel and let it charge a battery all day would that work? I live in southern california so I dont have to worry to much about cloudy days. also any suggestions on where to buy a panel, inverter, charge regulator, and battery?

Solar panels range fromwatt to 200 watts. Most panels up to30 watts are 2volts. Siemens puts out a module (SM0) that is rated at 0 watts, 2volt, and 6.3 amps.weight (without a frame) .5 kg ms 660mm by 36mm., .868 sq meters, 26.73 watts/m^2. Do a google search for solar panels. Southern Cal. should have lots of suppliers. I know there is one in Arizona.