Solar panels are more cost-effective in the long term than traditional forms of energy generation

Solar collectors are technical devices that convert sunlight into electricity. A solar panel consists of solar cells made of silicon. When sunlight hits the solar cell, the photons in the light are absorbed by the silicon. This causes electrons in the atoms of silicon to be released, which are then directed to the conductors in the solar panel through an internal electric field. The number of solar cells in a solar panel varies. With a higher number of solar cells, the efficiency also increases. Solar panels are capable of generating energy as long as there is sufficient sunlight. When using multiple solar panels, they can be connected in series to generate even more energy. In addition to the fact that solar energy is an inexhaustible energy source, solar panels also contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and reducing the global use of fossil fuels. Moreover, solar panels are more cost-effective in the long term compared to traditional methods of energy generation, such as using electricity from fossil fuels.

Solar panels can nowadays be used for electricity generation in residential homes, businesses, and large industrial facilities. The three most common types of solar panels are monocrystalline modules, polycrystalline modules, and thin-film solar modules, which are typically more flexible and lighter than crystalline modules. All modules have been designed for different conditions. The efficiency of a solar module depends on various factors, such as the quality, the amount of sunlight falling on the module, and the temperature of the module.

Which solar panels are suitable for you?

Which solar panels are best suited to your desires and needs depends on several factors:

1. Shade and sunlight hours: An important aspect is the hours during which the sun shines on the roof, as this determines how much electricity you can generate. It is also important to consider the shadows on the roof. Obstacles such as trees, chimneys, or dormers can cast shadows on the roof and thus affect the performance of the solar panels. Therefore, it is important to consider shading when installing the solar panels to benefit optimally from the available sunlight hours.
2. Suitable roof: Your roof must be suitable for the installation of solar panels, with the orientation of your roof being particularly important. A sloped roof facing south captures the most sunlight and thus allows for a higher energy yield. However, a roof facing east or west is also suitable. For a flat roof, the orientation is less important as the panels can be tilted in all directions.
3. The price: There are three types of solar panels, each with different costs. Polycrystalline modules are the cheapest, while thin-film modules are the most expensive. Furthermore, there are different brands and qualities of solar panels that affect the price. However, it is important not only to consider the price when purchasing solar panels but also the quality, yield, and warranty. A cheaper solar panel may ultimately be more expensive due to lower yield and shorter lifespan. Therefore, it is advisable to invest in high-quality solar panels to generate optimal yield and benefit from a longer lifespan.

What do solar panels bring you?

Annually, a solar panel with a power output of approximately 250 to 400 Wp generates an average of about 300 to 400 kWh of electricity. The exact yield of the solar panels depends on various factors such as location, orientation, tilt angle, and potential shading. The type and quality of the solar panels also influence the yield. In general, better conditions result in higher yields. Therefore, it is important to choose a good location and maintain the modules well for optimal yield.

The influence of weather conditions on your solar panels

The purchase of solar panels initially requires an investment. The average payback period for do-it-yourself sets is between 3-5 years. After the investment has been recouped, you generate your own electricity for free. Therefore, solar panels offer many long-term benefits, such as a lower electricity bill and reduced dependence on energy providers.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of solar panels?

The advantages of solar panels:

1. You can save money through solar panels.
2. The value of your house increases.
3. You are no longer completely dependent on energy suppliers.
4. In many regions, there are subsidies to support the energy transition.
5. Technological advancement that could lead to more efficient and affordable systems in the future.
6. You generate sustainable electricity that is always available.

The disadvantages of solar panels:

1. There is a relatively long payback period of 6 to 8 years. However, with do-it-yourself sets, it's only 3 to 5 years.
2. Solar modules are dependent on sunlight, which means that efficiency can fluctuate on cloudy days or at night.
3. In most cases, the meter cabinet, as well as the space in the attic, needs to be adjusted. This is not the case with do-it-yourself sets.
4. They change the appearance of your house.