Roof-Mounted Solar Cells: The Basics

Posted on | May 21, 2010 | No Comments

Whenever the sun is out, your home’s roof is exposed to solar energy. Why not use that energy, reduce your electric bill and limit the amount of carbon dioxide you add to the atmosphere each day?

Depending on where you live, the position of your roof in relation to the sun, and the amount of weight your roof can stand, mounting solar cells on your roof could prove invaluable in increasing your home’s energy independence. as well as adding value to it. <!–adsensestart–>

* What are solar cells and how do they work?

Certain materials like gallium arsenide, crystalline and amorphous silicon, and copper indium diselenide produce electricity when they absorb light. This is called the photoelectric effect. Solar cells are typically made of a thin layer of such photosensitive material. Light hitting the solar cells raises the energy level of the electrons within. At an elevated energy state, the electrons are able to escape from their molecules and create an electric current.

* How can you tell if your roof is suitable for the installation of solar cells?

Solar cells work best when exposed to direct sunlight. Ideally, you could put a panel of solar cells on a motorised mount that follows the sun’s path through the sky, but that’s usually not practical for a roof.

The next best thing is a roof mounting where the solar panels are South facing, and have an unobstructed view of the sun. This of course depends on where you live.

You need to take into account how much weight your roof can stand. If it already has several layers of shingles, you probably shouldn’t add solar panels.

There is a new alternative to solar panels called “solar shingles”. These are roof shingles into which solar cells have been added. If your roof needs replacing then consider the idea of solar shingles. You will not only have a new roof but also be adding to the value of your home. You can even buy solar shingles that match the colour of your other roof tiles.

Although solar cells rely on the power of the sun to generate electricity, if the temperature becomes very hot the cells start to become less efficient.

Consider installing a small wind turbine as well as solar cells if you intend to generate all or most of your own electricity. So if you live in a very hot country where day time temperatures can soar, or you live in a country that experiences long dark days in winter you have 2 sources of power and should be able to avoid cuts in your electricity supply.

* How Much does it cost to install a solar power system?

The initial cost of installing solar panels can be high, and it can range from $6,000 for a small supplementary system to $30,000 or more for a large “off-the-grid” system. However once it’s paid for, all your electricity you generate will be free.

Alternatively you can build your own solar panels using materials bought from your local diy store. You can even buy broken solar cells very cheaply and use those instead of buying new ones.

You don’t need to be expert at diy if you follow a simple step by step guide. Click here to find out more…

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sleep disorders graphic Renewable energy is becoming more popular as energy prices rise and the need to cut back on C02 emissions is recognised. The cost of installing solar panels has fallen and more people are installing them. Discover how you can save energy in your home and become more environmentally friendly.