Use and distribution of this article is subject to our Publisher Guidelines
whereby the original author's information and copyright must be included.
There are a few terms that are important to know when you begin researching solar panels. You will find that they pop up all over the place. Since you will probably run into them quite often when researching or shopping for a solar system, Arizona solar electric experts have pinpointed the top terms and their definitions are listed below.
Monocrystalline Vs. Poly-crystalline
Arizona solar electric officials state that monocrystalline (c-Si) and poly- or multicrystalline cells (poly-Sci or mc-Sci) are the most common. Monocrystalline are by far the most expensive but they are also proven to be the most efficient compared to other products. Poly-crystalline is less efficient. Still, the majority of residential solar systems use poly-crystalline products because they are much more affordable and still work quite well for residential purposes.
Photovoltaics & Solar Cells
The discovery of the photovoltaic effect in 1839 led the way to the creation of solar cells and solar panels. Photovoltaics is the scientific method that explains the magic behind how solar panels work. It is when solar radiation is converted by a material that can conduct energy and convert it into electrical energy. Silicon is the most common semiconducting material in solar panels. Solar cells are what make up a solar panel. The wafer shaped discs are composed of silicon. As mentioned above, solar cells are either turned into monocrystalline or poly-crystalline.
Power Purchase Agreement
Once you have figured out what system you want, you may be wondering about payment options. While you can always directly purchase a solar system, there are many different financing options available. One of the most common today is the power purchase agreement. Arizona solar electric experts state that this is a term you will run into a lot because it is something that people are taking advantage of more and more often.
Solar companies in Phoenix state that PPAs (power purchase agreements) are common for residential purchases because they take a big financial burden off of the homeowner by either greatly decreasing or eliminating the high upfront costs of solar panels. This cost is often intimidating for many homeowners. These agreements are long term, averaging 10 to 20 years. They do however offer a low cost way to bring solar onto properties, according to Arizona solar electric officials. PPAs set up a rental agreement. With a PPA a homeowner, business, or public entity "rents" solar panels from a third party solar company.
Lexe Charleston's love for design took her out of the law field and drew her into the world of interior architecture and furniture design. She is a self-taught interior design consultant who has thrived in the business for years seeking out the hottest trends.
View the original article here
