Solar Panels for Beginners

If you’re considering converting to solar power in your home, you’re making a great choice. It’s not only one of the cleanest forms of renewable energy available today, it’s also great for the planet. One of the main reasons why more people don’t switch over to solar energy is because of the solar panel costs. The good news, though? The costs of solar panels have drastically fallen in the last few years.

It’s Cheaper Now than Ever Before

Solar panels have traditionally been pretty expensive to install. While you’re sure to make your money back over the years in terms of savings on your electricity usage, it’s still hard to pay out a lot of money up front. As of three years ago, the cost to install a solar panel energy system on an average size home in California would set you back between $30,000-$35,000. Today, with the increased inventory and falling demand, the solar panel costs have really fallen. There are also many rebates, tax credits, and other discounts that can bring the total cost down to a little over half of that!

Choosing the Right Solar Panel for Your Home and Your Budget

There is a lot more to consider than just solar panel costs when you are choosing panels for your home. First, you will want to determine how many panels you’ll need. Most homeowners try to get 40 to 50 percent of their electricity from solar panels. You’ll need to check how many kilowatts of power your family uses in a month’s time. You can then look for solar panels that can produce what you need. If you need 200 watt panels, those will be twice as expensive as the 100 watt panels. The installation costs will also need to be figured in.

Most solar panels come with a 10 to 25 year warranty. The longevity of the panel will affect the solar panel costs, but it’s worth it to purchase the best panels you can afford. The efficiency of the panels will differ as well. If your home has a large area of sun exposure, then you should consider monocrystalline or multi-crystalline panels. For homes with partial shading, then an amorphous panel is your best choice for the most efficiency. Amorphous panels produce the least amount of electricity and they also take up more room than other panels. Speak with a solar panel company that can explain which options are best for your home.

A Few Final Thoughts

Solar panel costs are expected to continue to fall for the next year or so. This is in part due to a struggling economy. This industry is feeling the pinch, as are many others. If you have been considering installing a solar energy system, then now is the right time to move on it. You can see a significant reduction in your electricity costs and the savings will help pay for the solar panel costs over the next few years. You are also doing a small part to help the world’s population become less dependent on fossil fuels.

Solar Panel Costs Tip #1

There are some used solar panels available for sale. If you think this is the way you want to go, make sure you know where the panels came from, how old they are, and if they will need repairs. It can be expensive to rebuild these panels and you may end up spending more in the long run than if you just purchased new panels.

Solar Panel Costs Tip #2

Before you choose a company to complete the installation process, make sure you get several written quotes to compare different companies. You want to be sure the warranty information is listed, as is the expected time to install the panels.

Solar Panel Costs Tip #3

You’ll also want to check the credentials of any company that you are considering hiring for the installation. There have been reports of many scams and you certainly don’t want to be swindled out of that kind of money! Contact your local Better Business Bureau to see there are any unresolved complaints and make sure you ask for a business license and insurance.

In today’s environmentally conscious world, solar power is quickly becoming one of the most popular renewable energy sources. It’s clean, efficient, and solar panels can last for a quarter of a century or more. However, aside from the traditional solar panel systems to power your home or business, there are other solar panel products that you should consider as well. Not only will these products help to dramatically lower your energy costs, you can qualify for rebates, incentives, and tax deductions on some of these products as well.

Solar Hot Water Heaters

Over 30% of a typical home’s energy usage is consumed heating water. There are now solar panel products available that will take care of the entire cost of heating water. It can make a significant, positive effect on your energy bills and you’ll know that you’re doing your part to help the environment.

Solar Pool Heaters

Most pools are built in climates that are warm and sunny all year long. However, that doesn’t mean that you don’t need a pool heater. The water will not normally get as warm as with a heat pump, but they will do the job very efficiently. There is virtually no cost to operate a solar pool heater. The solar panels will require quite a bit of space to install, but once completed, will require very maintenance. In fact, most solar panels have a 25 year warranty! That’s a long time for you to see the energy savings. The drawback is that during inclement weather, you won’t have a pool heater, but with thunder and lightning, it’s probably not best to be in the water anyway!

Solar Powered Vehicles

A vehicle that is completely powered by solar energy won’t be available, at least at an affordable price for several years, but auto manufacturers are making great strides. Some companies are looking to use solar panels to run small vehicles parts, such as fans and cooling systems, which can improve fuel mileage. It’s just a matter of time before solar panel products make their way into more forms of possible transportation.

The Rebates, Incentives, and Tax Credits

Local and state governments, as well as the federal government, are offering impressive incentives to implement solar panel products into society’s daily lives. There are several restrictions that are in place as to which products will qualify. There are also regulations about when the installation is completed in order to qualify. As to the tax credits, you’ll need to speak with a tax professional to see just how much you can save. With many solar panels today, you can recoup as much as 50% of the cost through these types of programs.

A Few Final Thoughts

When it comes to solar panel products, there is quite a selection to choose from. You will not only have an energy source that can last for many years, you will also help conserve the earth’s fossil fuels. This leads to a healthier, cleaner environment now and for future generations.

Solar Panel Products Tip #1

You can build your own solar panel for less than $200 and it can power a small shop or your exterior lights. It takes about a weekend’s time and as long as you have some basic carpentry skills, it’s a pretty simple project.

Solar Panel Products Tip #2

If you decide to go completely solar, you may actually find that your electric company will pay you for the excess electricity that you put back into the grid. This can really help reduce the costs associated with new panels and installation.

Solar Panel Products Tip #3

There are even solar cookers that you can use at home, while camping, or even when RV’ing. The first solar cooker was created by in the 1700’s, so this is certainly not new technology.

While solar energy is one of the fastest growing forms of clean, renewable energy sources in the world, it can also be rather expensive. For a typical home, you can expect to spend between $25,000 and $35,000 to go completely solar. However, you may be surprised to learn that you can purchase a used solar panel very inexpensively. The key is knowing where to find these types of panels and for an affordable price!

What Size Are You Looking For?

You can find solar panels in just about any size. However, it’s more common to find the small to medium sized panels, rather than the larger ones used for mostly commercial purposes. If you are planning on using a smaller panel to power a small shop or a single appliance, then you should not have a difficult time finding such a panel.

Where to Start Your Search

Believe it or not, you can find a used solar panel close to home. Remember the road signs that construction companies use that are powered by a solar panel? Contact these companies in your area and see what they do with the panels they don’t want to use anymore. You’ll have more luck if you do this in person than over the phone. While they may not have any panels for you the first time you contact them, continue to check back. You may find that after awhile, they could contact you.

The internet is also a great place to search. There are several businesses listed that deal only in used solar panels and repair or replacement parts. Many of these panels are offered at over half off, which can result in a significant savings. However, it’s important to know a little bit about how the panels work and which type of panel will work best for your applications.

Since solar energy is becoming more and more popular, you may find that solar energy contractors are quite prevalent. Create a list of contacts and see if these companies have access to replacement panels or if they simply do new installations. You may be able to purchase a few used panels for a song if you make the right contacts.

Are Repairs Needed?

If you purchase panels that are in need of repair, will you be able to complete the refurbishment? If not, you may find this to be an expensive endeavor. While almost all panels can be repaired, it won’t be cost-effective in many cases. If you can find a used solar panel that is still in working order, it’s probably a much better investment.

A Few Final Thoughts

A used solar panel is a great way to get started with solar energy. Choose a panel large enough to power a small shop or a few lights. Once you have installed this panel, you can begin to look elsewhere for larger, more expensive panels. Since you can loop these panels together, you can add another as you finances allow.

Used Solar Panel Tip #1

Used solar panels will usually not be included in the rebates and tax incentives that are offered today. If this is what you are looking to cash in on, make sure you check all the requirements before you make your purchase.

Used Solar Panel Tip #2

Some solar panels only require a new Plexiglas covering to be fully functional again. However, others will require new wiring or completely new solar cells. Make certain you trust the seller, so you don’t throw your money away.

Used Solar Panel Tip #3

If a solar panel is over 20 years old, you may want to bypass it. This is because after 20-25 years, most solar panels will not produce as much energy as they did when they were new.

Thinking that solar panels are exactly what your home needs? It’s a great investment, not only for your home, but for the environment as well. Alternative energy sources can reduce pollution, save the planet’s fossil fuel sources, and save you money on your electric bills. However, if you’re like most people, the solar panels price may be a huge factor in your decision. Here is some infomration to help make your decision a little easier.

Used or New Solar Panels?

Price guides for new or used panels can fluctuate greatly, depending on where you live and how large your home is. You can save quite a bit of money initially by having used panels installed on your home. However, there are some disadvantages, too. For example, the average life of a solar panel is approximately 25 years. As time approaches this mark, the panels become less effective. Technological advances arrive each year that make the panels more effective and less expensive, too.

Between new and used solar panels, price differences can be quite substantial. For an average sized home, used panels will run about $6,000 to $12,000. New panels will cost about $20,000 to $25,000. For those on a budget, the used solar panels price is probably looking more attractive. But wait. With the latest rebates and tax credits, you can save as much as 30% with new panels. Another thing to consider is the warranty. Most new panels have a warranty of up to 25 years. Most used panels won’t have that type of warranty available. If you have to replace a panel every few years, it may not be much of a bargain.

Other Important Things to Consider

Before you decide that you want to go entirely “off the grid,” you’ll need to think about how many days of direct sunlight your home will get, too. If you live in Arizona, this may not be a problem. However, for those that live in Oregon or Washington, you may only get 125 full days of sunshine each year. Unless you invest in an extremely expensive storage system for the power from the panels, it’s not likely you’ll have enough power to completely keep your home from using grid electrical power.

Installation must also be considered. If the panels aren’t installed correctly, you may receive less power than you should. Some of the companies that promise low solar panels price for installation are nothing more than scam artists, too. You will have to do some research to be sure you aren’t a victim to one of those schemes.

Should You Build the Panels Yourself?

There are a lot of websites right now that offer the plans to build a solar panel. If you are just wanting to run power in a small shop or a single appliance in your home, these are pretty good deals. The solar panels price for these plans is usually fairly reasonable. However, most do not offer the same power output as those that are available commercially.

You’ll need some basic carpentry skills, but you can find most of what you need at your local hardware or home improvement store. After you build the first one, you can usually get through a second one in a long weekend. Most of the build-your-own solar panels price is about $300-$500. That’s quite a savings over new or used panels.

In Closing

Solar panels price guides are available all over the internet. Keep in mind that you’ll need to include installation costs and you may still have to stay on the grid for part of your power. However, it’s definitely worth your time to do a little bit of research.

Solar Panels Price Tip #1:

If you’re building your own solar panels, you can connect two or more panels together to increase the power output.

Solar Panels Price Tip #2:

To find used panels, contact the different building companies in the area and see if they have some they want to get rid of. You’ll be surprised at how often used panels are simply lying around collecting dust.

Solar Panels Price Tip #3:

The price of panels has dropped drastically in the last year. This is due to an abundance of product and falling sales from a slow economy. With the current rebates, going solar has never been cheaper.

A recent article in the Wall Street Journal describes the falling solar panel prices and the reasons for this exciting development. If you have considered installing solar panels on your home, there has never been a better time to do so. In just the past year, prices have fallen at least 25% in many areas and it doesn’t show any sign of slowing down soon.

Inventories Rise and Demand Falls

Demand has fallen over the past year due to the current economic woes. Just as almost every other industry has seen falling sales, the solar energy sector has as well. The good news? You can now get a solar energy system for a average sized home for about $15,750. This includes the 30% rebate offered by the federal government. The same system two years ago would have cost over $30,000 without the recent price drop and the rebates!

Since sales are declining, inventories are rising. More and more manufacturers are dropping their solar panel prices in hopes of improving overall sales. If you have looked at this alternative energy source in the past and decided it was too expensive, then you may want to take a second look now!

Converting to Solar Power

There are several things to consider before converting to solar power. Most homeowners are quite satisfied if their solar panels can reduce their electricity costs by 40-50%. However, others want to go completely off the grid. Take a look at your current electric bill and see how many kilowatts you used last month. The typical solar panel system will provide 4 to 5 kilowatts of power each day, which is usually enough to power your home for several hours. Of course, the night time is when the solar panels won’t work. This is also the time when most homes use the least energy.

How Long Do Solar Panels Last

Today’s solar panels prices include a warranty and in most cases, it’s a 25 year warranty. That speaks volumes about the durability of these systems. It also means that while you may pay several thousand dollars for your solar panels now, they will pay for themselves long before the warranty runs out. This is a great investment, no matter which way you look at it.

Finding the Best Solar Panel Prices

Start your search online. There are several different types of solar panels, so you’ll need to do a little research to see which type is best for your home. Many solar companies have websites full of information on the different materials, life expectancy, and pricing. However, you’ll also need to remember that installation costs can be quite high. It’s best to get a written estimate from several companies to see which ones offer the most savings.

A Few Final Thoughts

Solar energy is one of the cleanest forms of alternative energy available today. By harnessing the sun’s power, you can help reduce the use of fossil fuels, which means less waste and pollution in our world. This means that future generations will have a cleaner, healthier environment in which to live. The bonus right now though, is the reduced solar panel prices around the globe!

Solar Panel Prices Tip #1

You can build a small solar panel that can operate a small shop for just a few hundred dollars. This is a great way to see the potential savings and it can all be done over the course of a weekend.

Solar Panel Prices Tip #2

There are several websites that offer used solar panels for sale. However, over time, the efficiency of a solar panel will decrease. Make sure you are familiar with the common problems of used solar panels so you don’t waste your money on ones that don’t work correctly or efficiently.

Solar Panel Prices Tip #3

There are reports of scam artists targeting homeowners who are interested in solar power. Make sure you do a little research on whichever company you use to avoid being taken for a ride.

Traditionally, solar power has an expensive price tag. However, when it comes to today’s solar panels, manufacturers are making more efficient products and are offering them at a lower cost to consumers. In fact, prices for solar products have seen a very dramatic drop in the last three years.

A Comparison of Prices

On average, prices for solar panels have dropped about fifty percent from just a year ago. This means that the total cost to install a solar power panel on an average sized home has decreased from almost $40,000 to just under $20,000. However, don’t write out that check just yet. Many of the solar panel manufacturers are working with the government at the local, state, and federal level to provide rebates, tax breaks, and other incentives to help home and business owners implement this clean, renewable energy source.

Only Certain Products from Solar Panels Manufacturers Will Qualify

When it comes to the rebates and incentives, not all solar panels will qualify. You must install specific models from certain manufacturers. Why? Because the governments have determined that these are the most effective products, especially when it comes to going completely off the grid. It’s best to do a lot of research ahead of time to make sure you don’t spend your money on solar systems that don’t qualify. There are a number of resources online that list the qualified products. You can also speak with your tax professional to receive a list.

Calculating Solar Panel Costs for Your Home

There are a number of different solar panel calculators that can help you determine who many panels you’ll need based upon your current energy consumption. You will need to get an average of your energy use from your electric company. The solar panels manufacturers provide the rest of the necessary data in terms of how much energy each panel will put out. You can also find calculators that will help you determine the total costs of these panels.

However, if you’re ready to start the process of converting to solar power, then you should get several estimates from different companies. This will give you a better understanding of exactly what you are looking at in terms of cost.

Choosing the Right Panels

Solar panels manufacturers are not all the same. Some produce panels that consistent rank some of the highest in the world for efficiency. Most will offer a line of solar panels that are not as effective, but are lower priced. The top of the line products will give you more power, but at a higher cost.

Before you make sure purchase, you’ll also want to see what type of warranty the solar panels manufacturers offer with their products. In most cases, solar cells and panels come with at least a 25-year warranty. That’s a long time. However, that’s also why you want to choose a company that is reputable and experienced. If you do have problems with a panel, you want to make sure the company is still in existence.

Solar Panels Manufacturers Tips #1

If you aren’t able to place enough panels on your home to go completely off the grid, don’t worry. Aim for at least 40%, which will significantly lower your home’s electric bill.

Solar Panels Manufacturers Tip #2

There are a number of different solar products available, such as solar water heaters, pool heaters, and even those that power only one or two appliances. If you’re not sure you want to go solar, consider one of these options.

Solar Panels manufacturers Tip #3

There are also a number of applications for solar power for your transportation options. RV and marine panels can help ease your costs for fuel, but it also helps save a little bit more of our natural resources.

For those that want to implement a solar power system on their boat, there are a number of options. There are different types of solar cells, different mounting configurations, and different applications for these cells. Solar panels for boats are becoming more and more popular, especially as the efficiency of these panels has increased over the past few years. Here are three tips to help you get the right solar products for your marine applications.

#1 Choose the Right Type of Solar Panels

There are three types of solar cells for boats. These include monocrystal, polycrystal, and amorphous. All differ in terms of efficiency, price, and how they are installed. The most efficient are the crystalline panels; however, for low light situations, the amorphous are more efficient. The amorphous panels are also more expensive.

In terms of durability and reliability, you can expect anywhere from ten to twenty years out of your solar panels. In most cases, solar panels for boats do not last as long as those that are fixed, such as those on a building. Amorphous panels do not last as long, perhaps two to five years. However, depending on the climate and amount of sunlight in the area where you place your boat, amorphous panels might be your best choice.

#2 Choose the Right Type of Mounting to Maximize Efficiency

There are a number of different ways you can mount solar panels for boats. Some panels are flexible, so you can actually bend them to fit in specific areas. You’ll want to mount any panel so that it gets the most sunlight. Locations might include the top of the cabin, bimini tops, radar arches, and deck mounting. When you’re using a deck mounting, you’ll want to ensure you use spacers to allow for adequate airflow between the panel and the deck. You’ll also want to use silicone where holes were made in the deck. This will help ensure that your solar panels are safely installed.

#3 Choose the Right Application for the Solar Panels

There are three different types of applications for solar panels for boats. These include maintenance charging on boats mooring, sole-source charging for boats that don’t have auxiliary charging systems, and augmenting charging systems for cruising boats. There are solar power systems that can power a significant amount of appliances, such as the bilge pump or a television, for several hours during the day. You’ll also want to get a battery bank that will store the energy from the sun for later use.

In Closing

You’ll be surprised at the benefits of solar panels for boats. Not only do they help to protect the earth resources, such as fossil fuels, these panels product a clean, renewable energy source. It’s better for the environment and it will help you reduce the costs associated with your boat. Certainly, as time progresses, more applications and more efficient solar panels will be developed, increasing the benefits even more.

Solar Panels for Boats Tip #1

There are a number of different manufacturers of marine solar panels. You can find a lot of information on the internet about which panels may be best suited for your needs.

Solar Panels for Boats Tip #2

You can purchase specialized panels that are designed to run onboard water heaters or other appliances. In fact, you local marine dealer will be able to show you examples of these types of systems.

Solar Panels for Boats Tip #3

There are many different sizes in panels, so you can tailor then specifically to your boat. This can also help to make these panels operate more efficiently when you make the most of the available space on your boat.

One of the most popular choices for residential and commercial solar applications is a Mitsubishi solar panel. This manufacturer is truly one of the leading companies when it comes to high efficiency solar panel production. In fact, Mitsubishi is pushing towards a 500-megawatt goal of solar cell production each year.

What Type of Mitsubishi Solar Panel Is Available?

Mitsubishi specializes in manufacturing photovoltaic solar modules for grid-connected systems. These panels offer high efficiency and reliability. They also have photovoltaic inverters, but these are only available in Europe.

Mitsubishi Electric’s ongoing research is geared towards creating even more efficient modules, but also at a price that’s affordable. One of the newest technologies from Mitsubishi Electric is the development of “solder-coatingless cells.” This type of photovoltaic cell removes the lead, which is harmful to the environment and to humans. It also offers expanded light reflection, which improves the overall efficiency of the cells.

Mitsubishi Electric has also developed fine grid electrodes, which expanded the light receiving area of the solar cells. This, too, has lead to a higher efficiency for their solar products.

Reliability Improvements Increase Durability

A Mitsubishi solar panel is designed to withstand the harshest environmental conditions, such as extreme temperature conditions. From the “Original Derating Design Concept,” which lowers the failure rate of the PV cells, to a reliable bus bar and lower slope of the module frame, Mitsubishi Electric products are designed for reliability and long-life.

Safety Is Never Forgotten

Due to the combination of high voltage and severe environments, malfunctions may lead to a hire hazard. Therefore, it’s imperative that all possible safety measures are taken when it comes to production and design. A Mitsubishi solar panel has such safety features as a triple-layer structure junction box, a highly reliable bypass diode, and they conform with all US and European safety standards.

Environmental Concerns

Each Mitsubishi solar panel is designed with environmental concerns in mind. From the removal of lead to production facilities that use less water and promote energy conservation, this company is dedicated to keeping the planet as safe as possible.

Where to Buy Mitsubishi Solar Products

There are a number of independent dealers or you can buy directly from Mitsubishi Electric. You will want to get an estimate beforehand, so you can compare prices between a Mitsubishi solar panel and two or three other manufacturers. Since installation is also a big part of the cost, simply pricing the panels is not enough. Choose reputable solar companies that have been in business for years. There are several areas of the United States that have enacted laws to keep the scam artists from swindling homeowners.

A Final Thought

A Mitsubishi solar panel is a great investment, not only for your home, but for the environment, as well. Solar power provides a clean, renewable energy source and helps to preserve the earth’s fossil fuels. As more and more people and businesses make the move to solar power, they are helping each generation that follows.

Mitsubishi Solar Panel Tip #1

There are many websites that promote utilizing used solar panels to save on costs. The important thing to remember is that the efficiency of solar panels dwindles over time. Buying new means your solar power system will produce electricity for many years to come.

Mitsubishi Solar Panel Tip #2

These panels are backed by a lifetime warranty. It does not get much better than that!

Mitsubishi Solar Panel Tip #3

With the latest rebates and incentives, there has never been a better time to considering installing a solar energy system in your home. You can see savings of up to 30% with qualified solar products.

If you are not familiar with Kyocera Solar Panels, here is a little information on this company. Founded in 1975 in Japan, this company has led the industry in their research and development of solar energy panels. In 1987, they were the first company to mass-produce multicrystalline silicone photovoltaic cells and by 1998, they were the largest solar modular manufacturer.

Kyocera Offers a Wide Range of Solar Products

Kyocera specializes in vertically integrated solar products. The North American operation is headquartered in Scottsdale, Arizona. They have a wide range of Kyocera solar panels for both residential and commercial applications. These solar products can operate as a stand-alone panel or they can be integrated into the local power grid. You will also find a number of solar solutions for water pumping, water heating, RV and marine applications, and many different commercial applications. These include telecommunications, traffic signals, and even medical components.

Highest Energy Conversion Efficiency

Since this company was founded, Kyocera has manufactured some of the highest energy conversion efficiency solar panels in the world. Currently, Kyocera has established an 18.5% conversion rate. Their innovative and continuous research helps provide millions with clean, renewable power.

Latest News and Developments

In just the past few months, Kyocera has become part of many substantial solar projects around the world. Some of these include a 144.48 kw solar array at US Floors in Georgia (the largest solar array in the state), a large scale, 40 mw facility in Spain, and solar power generating systems for school in Uganda (Kyocera donated these systems.)

In March 2010, Kyocera announced its decision to begin manufacturing solar modules in the United States. Located in San Diego, California, this facility is part of global effort to reach production capacity of 1,000 megawatts of solar cells per year by 2013.

In April 2010, Kyocera opened its 100th solar sales location in Japan. Japan, as well as the United States, has enacted local and national incentives for the implementation of solar products on homes and businesses. These rebates and incentives have rapidly increased sales of Kyocera solar panels throughout the two countries and other parts of the world.

Where Kyocera Is Headed

With a company vision for even higher efficiency Kyocera solar panels and a global vision to help promote solar power as a clean, renewable energy source, Kyocera has a bright future. Through continuous research, this company is always on the cutting edge of the solar power industry. However, these are not the only reasons why Kyocera is so important to the planet.

They also participate in a number of social and environmental organizations and campaigns. These include school-based environmental classes, site beautification campaigns, scholarship funds, the Kyocera Museum of Art, and a Pink Ribbon Awareness campaign to increase awareness for the fight against breast cancer.

In Closing

If you want the most efficient solar products available today, then consider Kyocera solar panels. This company has proven itself through its dedication to the environment through their extensive line of highly efficient solar products and with their work environmentally around the globe.

Kyocera Solar Panels Tip #1

There are several dealers that carry the Kyocera line of solar products. Learn more about the wide range of products available, whether it is for commercial or residential use.

Kyocera Solar Panels Tip #2

One of the best ways to see how much you will save by installing a solar panel system in your home is to use a solar calculator. You will be able to see just how many panels at a particular size will generate the amount of power you are looking for.

Kyocera Solar Panels Tip #3

Not all solar panels will be equally effective. It pays to spend a little more today and save more over the next 25 years or more.

The first things that usually come to mind when you think of solar power are the panels found on many homes to help generate electrical power. However, there are a number of other applications. One of these is the use of boat solar panels.

What Can You Do with Boat Solar Panels?

Solar panels are a great way to power your boat, and for a lot less than you might think. One you have installed these panels, they require very little maintenance and easily last over ten years or more. The best places to install the solar panels on boats are above the cabin, at the apex of an arch, or above davits to reduce shadows on the panels. This will decrease their efficiency. Another area that proves very effective is on the sides of the booms. This ensures that one panel is always capturing the available sunrays.

There are three applications for boat solar panels. The first is maintenance charging for boats on moorings. The second application is for augmenting charging systems on cruising boats. Finally, boat solar panels can be used as the sole source for charging boats without auxiliary power.

Types of Boat Solar Panels

There are three general types of marine solar panels. These are monocrystal solar panels, which are the most efficient option, polycrystal solar panels, which are almost as effective as monocrystal panels, and amorphous solar panels, which have a shade-tolerant coating.

How Long Will They Last?

Crystalline solar panels will degrade slowly over time; however, compared to some of the other types of panels, it is at a much lower rate. Traditionally, crystalline panels have a life expectancy of 20 years or more when installed on a fixed object. However, when it comes to marine applications, the life expectancy is about ten years. For amorphous solar panels used on boats will generally last about 2-5 years. There are several models that will usually last twice as long as that.

Where to Find Boat Solar Panels

There are a number of different ways that you can find boat solar panels. First, you can contact one of the dealers and get an estimate. Secondly, there are several wholesale companies that specialize only in solar panels. You can find many of these companies online and some have very competitive prices. Finally, you can contact the manufacturers directly. In some cases, this may get you the best prices available.

In Closing

Boat solar panels are one of the best choices you can make for alternative power supplies. They can significantly reduce the cost of fuel and also help conserve the earth’s natural resources. Boat solar panels eliminate pollution into the earth’s atmosphere and provide a clean, renewable energy source. While it doesn’t seem like a boat could produce much pollution, every time you can eliminate even a small portion of it, it makes a difference. Before you make your purchase, do enough research to ensure that you get the best possible panel for the price.

Boat Solar Panels Tip #1

Solar panels can work in reduced sunlight or even shade as long as there is some sunlight. However, you do want as much sun as possible to maximize energy production.

Boat Solar Panels Tip #2

Depending on your energy consumption on your boat, a 100-watt solar panel can produce enough power in a week for a bilge pump to run for three hours. You’ll need a battery pack to collect the energy for later use.

Boat Solar Panels Tip #3

You can install two different brands of solar panels to each other, as long as they have the same voltage output. For example, only connect a 12-volt panel to another 12-volt panel.