Most people know about solar energy and solar panels, but a few have heard about solar arrays, and others are curious to know what they are. If you don’t know what solar arrays are, you don’t need to worry, as this article will clarify everything.
Solar Array
A solar array is the connection of one or more solar panels with each other to become a fully functional solar power system. This system might also include batteries. The function of solar arrays is to produce electricity that can be used for homes or fed to the grid.
Composition
Individual solar panels in a solar array are made of photovoltaic (PV) solar cells. The surface is protected by glass and supported by a metal frame. Extremely thin silicon, a semiconductor, is used to make solar cells. Solar arrays can vary in size and energy production since the solar panels composing them may have different power outputs and sizes.
Working
Solar arrays contain many solar panels. One solar panel contains many solar cells. These solar cells generate electricity through the photovoltaic process. In this process, photons in sunlight release electrons from the silicon-comprising each solar cell. The produces an electric charge. This is why solar panel systems are called photovoltaic systems.
Solar arrays can last as long as the solar panels are in them. This means that a solar array will have a 25-year lifespan. Solar energy is produced without moving parts or using any fuel that can be exhausted. A short description of how solar arrays work is listed below:
Energy Generation:
Sunlight is captured by solar panels present in the array. The captured sunlight gets converted to direct current (DC) electricity.
Energy Conversion:
An inverter converts the DC power from the solar panels into alternating current (AC) electricity so the home can use it.
Energy Consumption:
Energy is utilized wherever it’s needed in the home. If excess electricity is produced, it’s transported to the grid to distribute to areas that require power.
Installation
You can install solar arrays in places with a good amount of sunlight. The ideal position for a solar array is on the south-facing section of a roof. This is because the south-facing solar arrays receive the most sunlight, resulting in increased energy output.
If the land is cheaper in your area, you could install solar arrays on ground mounts. This type of installation is mostly seen in rural areas and solar farms. You don't necessarily need a roof for installing solar arrays. Other things like solar pergolas, gazebos, solar canopies, and patios are also present.
Solar arrays are portable too. You can install them on vehicles like RVs. Solar arrays are also making their way into sea travel as boats are starting to incorporate them. If you want to go off-grid, just pair your solar array with some solar batteries, and you can spend days in cabins or camps without electricity. Solar arrays are also integrated into buildings for use.
Solar Array Size
A solar panel system’s ability to generate electricity is termed solar array size. Examples include a solar array of 500 watts generating 500 watts of electricity, while a solar system of 10 kilowatts will produce 10,000 watts of energy.
You must consider some factors to find the right solar array size. These are:
- Peak sun hours.
- Location.
- Energy consumption.
- Available roof space.
These are just assumptions with the average home in mind, but if you want your electricity bill to be zero, you will need a solar array that can generate at least 1,000 kWh of electricity in a month. However, these are just estimates, and it all depends on an individual’s energy needs that decide their solar array size. Residential solar arrays mostly have 50-100 solar panels, while utility-scale solar arrays can be 100-1,000 in number.
Cost
You can expect an average solar panel system in the U.S to be priced between $18,000-$20,000. A solar array typically costs between $5,800-$7,850. The remaining amount is the cost of installation and solar inverter.
Worth It?
Solar arrays can be a fruitful investment for many homeowners due to the warranties, low cost, and many solar incentives they come with. Solar panel systems can save $900-$1,200 on utility bills. Moreover, the solar payback period is only 8-11 years. After this, you can enjoy free electricity for 15 years. Savings depend on the following:
- Electricity consumption.
- Size of the system.
- Cost of electricity.
- Net metering policy.
However, many online solar calculators can predict your savings. You can also talk to your solar installer about this. Solar arrays are a worthwhile investment, so rest easy knowing that you’ll make the right decision if you purchase one.