A solar array comprises several solar panels that capture solar radiation and produce power. An array, as opposed to a single solar panel, combines the power of several panels to generate enough electricity to meet primary energy needs, such as lighting up significant commercial buildings or powering residences.
How Do Solar Arrays Work?
Photovoltaics (PV) is the technology that powers solar arrays by converting sunlight into electrical power. Each photovoltaic cell in a panel produces direct current (DC) electricity when light strikes it and excites electrons. Alternating current (AC) is used in most households and businesses. Hence, solar inverters are essential for transforming DC electricity into useful AC power.
The Components of Solar Arrays
Solar array components include:
- Photovoltaic cells: The components needed to transform sunlight into electrical energy.
- Solar panels: PV cell clusters are installed in groups and are typically covered in protective materials.
- Wiring and connectors: These are employed to transmit electricity and connect the panels.
- Mounting hardware: For mounting the panels on other structures, rooftops, or ground mounts.
- Inverters: to transform electrical power from DC to AC.
Applications of Solar Arrays
Solar arrays are a popular and adaptable renewable energy option because of their many applications. Here are a few typical applications:
- Residential: Installing solar arrays in their homes can lower their reliance on conventional electricity sources and utility costs.
- Commercial: Solar arrays may power a business’s activities, save energy expenditures, and reduce its carbon footprint.
- Agriculture: Solar panels can generate enough energy to run other farming equipment, barns, greenhouses, and irrigation systems.
- Telecommunications: Solar arrays are a common and dependable source of electricity for remote telecommunications installations located in non-grid areas.
- Spacecraft/ Satellites: Solar arrays can produce electricity even in space and are essential for powering satellites and spacecraft.
- Emergency Power: When conventional power sources are unavailable, solar arrays can provide electricity as a backup power source in an emergency.
Types of Solar Arrays
There are several varieties of solar arrays, each with special qualities and uses. Typical varieties include some of the following:
- Ground-mounted solar arrays: These are usually used in open areas like fields or landfills, where they are mounted on the ground. They are adaptable, simple to install, and include solar exposure adjustment capabilities.
- Roof-mounted solar arrays: These are mounted atop building rooftops, as the name indicates. They are a well-liked option for small-space residential and commercial buildings.
- Building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV): These solar arrays are designed to be integrated into architectural elements like walls, windows, and roofs. BIPV systems are a popular option for new construction and renovations because they can be used for structural and energy-generating purposes.
- Floating solar arrays: These are placed over water features like ponds and reservoirs. They have advantages, including lessening water surface evaporation and preserving land area.
Solar Panels vs. Solar Arrays
Scale and output are the main differences between solar panels and solar arrays. PV cells are found in a single solar panel, which can only produce a small amount of power. An array is created when several panels are joined, greatly enhancing the capacity to produce electricity.
| Feature | Solar Panel | Solar Array |
| Definition | A single, flat unit containing photovoltaic cells that convert sunlight into electricity. | A collection of multiple solar panels is electrically connected to generate more electricity. |
| Size | Standardized size (typically 60-72 cells). | Variable sizes can be customized based on energy needs. |
| Power Output | Limited (around 250-400 watts). | High power output (can range from kilowatts to megawatts). |
| Functionality | Stand-alone units don’t generate enough power for most applications. | It generates enough electricity to power homes and businesses or even be fed back to the grid. |
| Scalability | Limited scalability. | Highly scalable – more panels can be easily added to the array to increase power output. |
| Cost | Lower initial cost per unit. | Higher initial cost due to more panels and electrical wiring. |
| Design | Fixed design. | Flexible design can be customized for different roof shapes or ground mounting. |
Sizing Your Solar Array
Installing a solar array is an excellent method to lower your electricity costs and lessen your influence on the environment. However, it’s crucial to appropriately size your system before leaping. An array that is too tiny will not meet your energy needs, and an array that is too big will cost extra money.
Once you know this, you may calculate your solar array’s approximate kilowatt (kW) size using a formula. This will entail calculating efficiency and any needed buffer for cloudy days, then dividing your daily kWh consumption by the number of peak sun hours in your location.
The main elements to take into account while sizing your solar array are broken down as follows:
-
Your Energy Consumption
Finding out how much electricity you consume is the first step. You can find this information on your power bill, usually in kWh (kilowatt-hours). To account for seasonal fluctuations, take a year’s worth of data. You may compute your average daily kWh usage once you get this data.
-
Sunlight Availability
Not every place gets the same quantity of sunlight. The amount of peak sun hours your area receives each day will impact how much electricity your panels can produce. Maps showing the average yearly solar hours by location are available from resources such as the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL).
-
System Efficiency
Efficiency ratings apply to solar panels and inverters, transforming DC from panels into AC for your home. A certain amount of energy is lost during conversion in these ratings. These efficiencies must be taken into account when determining the overall system output.
-
Your Goals
Are you searching for a partial offset to lower your rates, or do you want your solar array to offset your electricity use fully? Larger array sizes are naturally needed for full offset systems than for partial offset systems.
Additional Considerations:
- Roof Size and Shading: Measure your usable roof space and note any spots shaded all day by buildings or trees. Shade can greatly impact panel output.
- Local Regulations: Regulations governing the installation of solar panels may exist in some places. Before completing your plans, verify with your local building department.
Installation
The following factors must be carefully planned for and taken into account when installing a solar array:
- The direction and tilt of your panels for maximum sunlight exposure.
- Local regulations and permits.
- The selection of high-quality components and experienced installers.
This procedure can be streamlined by comparing options and getting bids from pre-vetted installers using platforms like EnergySage.
Benefits
Installing solar arrays has several advantages:
- Reduced Electricity Bills: Your yearly energy savings with solar arrays can be as high as $1,200, saving you much money.
- Environmental Impact: Clean solar energy helps the environment by lowering carbon emissions and promoting a healthier planet.
- Energy Independence: Producing your electricity reduces your dependency on the grid, safeguarding against increasing energy expenses and blackouts.
Wrapping Up
The sun provides a plentiful energy source that, when properly utilized using solar arrays, may greatly aid in sustainably powering our planet. Due to technological breakthroughs, solar system costs continue to drop, making it a more affordable alternative for more people. There are several reasons to consider installing a solar array, including the environmental advantages, lower utility costs, and the attraction of energy independence.