Solar Panels - SunPower

What is a solar panel?

A solar panel, also known as a photovoltaic module, is a device composed of silicon cells that capture the energy of the photons from the sun and transform them into electrons, thus generating electric current. These devices are the fundamental piece of any system of own consumption, since they are constituted as a source of renewable, clean and sustainable energy that not only reduces dependence on fossil fuels and pollutants, but increasingly accessible thanks to state aid and European ecological transition programs. Solar panels can be composed of different types of photovoltaic cells, which will determine their efficiency and the amount of energy they can produce.

On Tienda Solar, we select exclusively panels First brands (Tier-1). What does this mean? That you acquire products with 100% automated manufacturing processes, maximum purity materials and a financial solvency of the manufacturer that supports your guarantees up to 30 years.

How does a solar panel work? The photovoltaic effect

The operation of a solar plate It is a fascinating physical process. When the sun's rays affect the silicon cells (semiconductor material), the electrons are excited and they begin to move, generating an electric current in the form of DC current (CC).

For this energy to be useful in your home, you must travel through the wiring up to the inverter solar, the "brain" of the system, which transforms that current into AC current (CA), Allowing your appliances, lights and air conditioning systems to work with free and clean energy.

What types of solar panels exist?

The technology has advanced by leaps and bounds. Nowadays, the choice of the panel depends on your budget and available space:

• Monocrystalline panels (N-Type and PERC): They are the elite of the sector. Manufactured with a single silicon glass, they offer a photovoltaic efficiency greater than 22%. They are ideal for roofs with limited space because they generate more energy per square meter.

• Topcon technology: It is the most recent innovation. These panels have a much lower long-term degradation and exceptional performance on cloudy days or extreme heat.

• Half-Cell Technology (Cell heading): The panel is physically divided into two. This reduces the internal resistance and allows that, if a part of the panel receives shade, the other half continues to produce 100% energy.

• Panels according to voltage:

  • 12V Solar Plates: Perfect for small installations, caravans or water pumping (30W to 200W powers).

  • 24V Solar Plates: The standard for the residential self-consumption and Industrial (Powers of 400W to more than 600W).

What price do solar panels have?

The Price of Solar Plates It has been democratized in the last decade. Currently, buy Tier-1 technology is an accessible investment with very fast returns (ROI from 4 to 6 years old).

In turn, it is important to keep in mind that, on most occasions, the price of solar panels is not defined solely by the watts of this, but also for its measurements, technical characteristics or aesthetic factors such as solar panels designed for a perfect integration Architectural

How to choose the best solar panel according to my needs?

Not to fail in your choice, consider these key points:

1. Roof space: If you have few square meters, choose High Power Panels (+ 500W) and Monocrystaline Technology to maximize production.

2. Climate of your area: In areas with very high temperatures, look for panels with a low temperature coefficient (such as N-Type), as they lose less efficiency with heat.

3. Annual consumption: Analyze your light invoice. A average home in Spain usually needs between 4 and 10 panels to cover 70-90% of its daytime consumption.

How is a solar panel installed? Performance guide

A Solar plates installation Successful requires technical precision. On Tienda Solar We always recommend:

• Strategic orientation: In Spain, the orientation South It is the one that greater annual production generates. However, the East-West configurations are excellent for self-consumption distributed throughout the day.

• Optimal inclination: To maximize the uptake, the inclination must be between the 30th and 35th.

• Structures and ventilation: It is vital to leave an air chamber between the panel and the roof. Adequate ventilation can improve performance up to 5% in the summer months, avoiding silicon cells overheating.

• Installation by a professional: In the vast majority of cases, there is no better investment than a certified installer to carry out a solar panel installation project. In addition to having the necessary knowledge and experience, you must bear in mind that to access many aids and grants you will need the signature of a certified installer. Likewise, the guarantee of many brands is lost if the material has not been handled directly by this type of professionals.

What maintenance requires solar panels?

Maintenance is minimal but indispensable so as not to waste money. A dirty panel can produce up to 15% less.

• Cleaning: We recommend laundering panels with water and neutral soap 2 times a year to eliminate dust, pollen and environmental dirt.

• Visual inspection: After episodes of strong wind or hail, it is advisable to check the anchors of the structure and ensure that there are no "hot spots" or breakage in the glass.

Environmental impact and sustainability: much more than savings

Install solar energy It is the most powerful individual action to stop climate change. The impact is positive at multiple levels:

• CO2 reduction: An average residential installation avoids the emission of approximately 1.5 tons of CO2 per year, the equivalent of planting 30 trees.

• Return energy (EPBT): A solar panel takes only between 1 and 2 years to generate the same energy that was used to manufacture it. From there, it produces 100% clean energy for more than 3 decades.

• Circular economy: Modern panels are 95% recyclable. Glass, aluminum and silicon can be reused to manufacture new components, promoting a green and responsible industry.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How long does the investment really last?

Technical useful life exceeds 30 years. Power guarantees ensure that, after 25 years, your panels will continue to surrendering at least 84.8% of its initial capacity.

2. Do hail and extreme climates resist?

Yes. The Tier-1 panels that we distribute are certified to withstand large hail impacts (usually up to 25mm to 80km / h), thanks to its high-security tempered glass.

3. What happens if my roof has shadows?

If there are partial shadows (chimneys, trees), we recommend using panels with technology Half-cell o Installing power optimizers. This prevents the shadow from a panel to affect the performance of the entire series.

4. Do I need batteries obligatorily?

No. You can perform an installation of own consumption Direct and pour the surplus to the network to receive compensation on your invoice. Batteries are ideal if you are looking to maximize your independence during the night.