Over the last few years, an increasing number of cheap solar panel kits have appeared on the market. The idea is that average householders can save great sums of money by converting solar energy into home energy at a low price. Reaction to these claims has understandably been positive, as panel installation has traditionally been an expensive affair. Despite the hype, it is worth looking carefully at what is out there and the realities of their use.
There are now some realistic solutions that go some way towards satisfying the world’s energy self-sufficiency craving. A typical product involves the installation up to three panels which can be generating power within an hour. Costs do vary, but the typical starting price has reduced considerably compared to what it once was.
The kits themselves would typically include one to three standard photovoltaic panels. There would also be some sort of mounting system. It is this which enables an individual to position the panels on a shed roof, wall or other structure. The output from three standard panels, although there are variations, will usually be around 600 watts. This sort of power would run a large appliance such as a washing machine. It is clear, then, that only a very small portion of a home’s electricity usage will be covered.
The solar panels are wired to a power module. This power module can often be plugged into a wall socket. The device is usually about the same size as a standard digital camera, so not very intrusive. It is this device that will feed electricity into the house’s wiring system by an inverter. The inverter converts direct current into alternating current. Many systems also come with a circuit monitor to ensure that no circuits are overloaded. These are often referred to as ‘plug-and-play’.
Applications for the kits are not limited to homes. Business use is promoted, along with caravans, motor homes, boats and yachts. A common term used to describe these units is ‘portable, solar powered, off-grid kits’. In case of poor weather the batteries are also designed to give two days worth of backup.
It is little wonder that people are turning to these kits in ever greater numbers. The attraction of self-sufficiency coupled with cutting down personal CO2 emissions is obvious. It is also worth noting that energy firms have finally begun offering fair prices in return for excess solar energy. Governments are also offering Feed-in-tariffs most notably in Germany, Spain and the UK. This has led to inflated demand and, therefore, cheaper prices. It is estimated that in 2008 worldwide module production increased by 80% compared to the previous year.
There are, however, a few points which need to be considered. Advertisements claiming to demonstrate how to make your own solar panel kit from cheap household materials should be viewed suspiciously. The technology behind Photovoltaic panels remains extremely complex. Experts will confirm that an efficient, reliable cell will not cost next to nothing. It is also worth remembering that panels work best when north facing. They should be pointed directly at the sun at the correct angle and not blocked by trees or building shadows.
Leading firms in this area will give good advice to anybody thinking about investing. Cheap solar panel kits are usually bespoke rather than custom designed. With the design aspect and the guidance of a professional comes greater cost. Consider, though, that a reputable supplier will tailor the system to your exact needs. The benefit of knowing that your exact power, time and location requirements will be met cannot be underestimated. The alternative is an ‘off-the-shelf’ kit where the customer must match their needs to one of many standardized kits. Such kits will provide greatly differing power output depending on location. Any kit should also comply with current recommended national guidelines.
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