Solar panels convert energy in the form of light from the sun into electrical energy.  Only between 2 and 22 percent of the energy that falls on a panel is converted to usable electrical energy.  The remaining energy is reflected or transformed into heat. Solar panels consist of a number of cells, which work together to create a high enough voltage to give off sufficient energy.  Energy from the sun’s light beats down on the solar panel crystals within these cells, knocking some electrons loose, which creates electricity.  A solar panel made up of 30-36 connecting cells, produces 14 to 17 volts.
 

The number of cells per a panel may decipher depending on if the panel is “self-regulating” or not.  “Self-regulating” panels generally have 30 to 32 cells, in comparison to a non-“self-regulating” panel with 36 cells.  The fewer amount of cells on a panel means the lower voltage.  “Self-regulating” panels means they can be hooked up to a battery for an extended period of time without over-charging.  Without regulation solar panels may experience over-charging the batteries if they are left in a place for a long time.  Regulators may not be preferred to some, although they are efficient, because they do not exert as much energy and electricity that may be needed.
 

Solar panels are a commercially available source of technological energy.  There are three different types of solar panels, which are commonly used today.  These three include monocrystalline, polycrystalline, and amorphous.

Monocrystalline:

· The first solar panels were made this way

· These panels were made from silicon slices cut from a single large crystal

· Provide the highest efficiency

· More expensive to produce than other types

Polycrystalline:

· Many manufacturers have switched to using this type

· Uses silicon which has been cast in blocks

· They are cheaper to produce and buy

· May not perform as well as the monocrystalline type when they get too hot

Amorphous:

· Most recent breakthrough in solar panels

· Less efficient than other panels, but

· The production methods are less costly

· Designed with silicon spread in thin layers on a backing material or directly on a glass plate

· These solar panels can actually replace roofs

o It’s material can be applied directly to stainless steel sheeting, which is shaped like conventional roofing material

o This helps to reduce the overall cost of the system

A solar panel has a life expectancy to exceed 20 years, with virtually no maintenance, although they should be cleaned from time to time to avoid dust or grime build-up that would prevent the panels’ potential output.  The higher wattage a solar panel has, the best money value.  This is because the life expectancy of the panels is around the same at over 20 years, so it would be worth paying the extra money to consume more energy.  The most commonly used panel size is between 50-83 watts.  The price range for this wattage is presently $450 to $700.  Solar panel are improving technologically and with the increasing mass production, the prices are expected to drop, but at a slow rate.