According to research, the solar energy that hits the earth’s surface within one and a half hours is enough to meet the world’s energy needs for a year. Solar panels convert sunlight into electrical energy produced through mirrors or photovoltaic panels that concentrate solar radiation. The energy can be used to make electricity or put into batteries or thermal storage.
The technicians at Custom Electrical Services are here to help you understand how solar panels work for commercial and residential buildings in Auburn, WA. This guide will also reveal what goes into solar panel installation and the components needed for the process.
What’s a Solar Panel?
Solar panel systems are devices that collect sunlight and turn it into electricity for your household or business. The solar panels are made from silicone solar cells, a metal frame, wiring, and a glass cover. The typical solar panel measures about 6 feet tall and 4 feet wide.
How Do Solar Panels Work?
When exposed to sunlight, solar panels take clean, renewable energy and convert it into electricity, which provides power for electrical appliances. A solar system comprises several solar cells comprised of layers of silicon, boron (which creates the positive charge) and phosphorous ( which creates the negative charge).
Solar panels absorb light photons and initiate an electric current. The energy generated allows the electrons to be thrown out of their atomic orbits and into an electric field created by the solar cells. They then pull the free electrons in a directional current. The whole process is called the photovoltaic effect.
The average Auburn home has more than enough roof space for the necessary solar panels to create enough electricity to supply all your power needs. The excess power produced goes to the main power grid and pays off your electricity use at night.
In a complete system connected to the grid, the solar array uses sunlight to generate power during the day, and it’s used in your home at night. With net metering programs, solar generator owners get paid if their solar panels produce more power than they need in their homes.
In an off-grid solar system, you’ll need a battery, a charge controller, and an inverter. The array will send direct current electricity via the charge controller and into the battery bank. The electricity produced is then drawn from the battery to the inverter. The inverter converts DC power into AC (alternating current) that’s then used by household non-DC appliances.
With the assistance of an inverter, you can size the solar panel arrays to meet even the most demanding electrical loads. The AC power generated can power electrical appliances in residential or commercial buildings, remote cabins, recreational vehicles and boats; cottages, remote traffic control; and other equipment.
Benefits of Solar Panels
Solar panels are a smart way to produce electricity for commercial and residential applications. The most obvious solar energy application is off-grid living, which means residing in an area that’s not serviced by the city’s electric utility grid. Remote cabins and homes largely benefit from solar energy as it’s more reliable than other options.
With solar energy, it’s also not necessary to pay costly fees to install electric utility poles and cables from the closest main grid access. Solar energy also helps you save money on your monthly utility costs. It will also serve you for close to three decades when properly maintained.
Besides helping homeowners in Auburn, WA, live off the grid, the greatest benefit of solar power is that it’s a clean and renewable energy source. Global climate change has made it important for people to reduce the pressure we put on the atmosphere by reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Solar panels have zero moving parts and require minimal maintenance. They’re ruggedly assembled and last for several decades when properly maintained. Additionally, once the system has paid off its initial installation cost, the electric power it produces for the rest of its life is free. That could be the next 20 years, depending on the quality of your solar panels.
For homeowners with an on-grid solar power system, the benefits will start from the second the system goes online. The system will potentially eliminate the high cost of monthly electricity bills and can earn the homeowner income through the electric company.
But how can solar panels earn you money? Well, if you use less electric power than what’s produced by your solar system produces, the excess power will be sold at a premium to the electric company.
How Much Will Solar Panels Cost in Auburn, WA?
The average solar panel cost in Auburn, WA, ranges from $3.01 per watt. Considering a solar panel system size measuring 5 kilowatts, the solar installation cost in Auburn ranges from $12,790 to $17,500. When you account for the 30% federal investment tax credit and other local solar incentives, your net price for installation will be reduced by thousands of dollars.
Are Solar Panels a Good Investment in Auburn, WA?
Yes, solar panels are a great investment in Auburn, WA and other areas, although you have to consider several factors. That includes the available incentives, electricity costs, sun angle and climate.
The average home in Auburn can save up to $8,800 over the next two decades by installing a solar panel on its roof. If you finance your system with a zero-dollar down solar loan, you can start ripping off the benefits from the first day.
What Determines the Cost of Your Solar Panels, Auburn?
The price you’ll pay for your solar panel will depend on the panel type, system size, roof type, panel brand and quality, permitting and interconnection. Also, remember that different installation companies in Auburn will differ, but Custom Electrical Services will help you reduce the cost significantly.
Are You Looking for Professional Electrical Services for Solar Installation in Auburn, WA? Custom Electrical Services Is Here for You!
Custom Electrical Services helps businesses and homeowners find the right solar panel and install them on their roofs for all their electrical power needs. We understand that solar installation is a significant financial decision, so our technicians are always keen to ensure everything works correctly and is up to code requirements. Call (206) 558-0440 to book an appointment.