Understanding How Solar System Works: From Sunlight to Electricity
The one issue that never fails to stress Pakistanis? Energy! The demand for energy keeps rising and there is no promise of a proper supply in the upcoming future. But there is this one thing that can put an end to this problem, say hello to Solar Energy! The future of energy is sustainable, and people in Pakistan have begun to realize the worth of solar systems, rapidly deciding to switch. Obviously, who would hate energy coming from the sun directly? In the following blog, I’ll be telling you how the solar system works. So gather up and join this learning journey towards sustainability in Pakistan!
Understanding The Basics: How Solar System Works
A solar system is a mechanism that collects solar energy and transforms it into usable electricity. Solar panels also known as solar plates are arrays of photovoltaic (PV) cells which directly convert sunlight into direct current (DC) electric power. These panels are normally placed on rooftops so that they can have optimal contact with sunlight during the sun’s rise until sunset.
The process is simple, it starts with the miracle of nature when the sunlight reaches Earth in about eight minutes. The photovoltaic cells in the solar plates then absorb the sunlight. Solar panels are made of semiconducting materials like silicon to create an electric charge when the sunlight hits the plates. This energy then converts from alternating current (AC) to direct current (DC) with the help of an inverter, which powers your buildings.
Types of Solar Energy and Solar Systems
There are several different types of solar energy which the inverters use to generate direct current.
- Photovoltaic (PV) Systems: The most common is the PV system, which is when solar systems directly convert sunlight into electricity, PV is ideal for residential use.
- Solar Thermal Systems: The second is the solar thermal system instead of directly converting sunlight into electricity it uses the sunlight to heat air or water, which then generates electricity. Solar thermal systems are used in industrial solutions. like water heating systems or large-scale solar power plants.
In terms of The 3 Different Types of Solar Power Systems, here’s a breakdown of the three most common:
- On-Grid Solar Systems: These are connected to the national electricity grid whereby the users can feed excess electricity back into the grid. Users are given credits for the electricity they produce but do not consume using a system called net metering.
- Off-Grid Solar Systems: Suitable for rural areas that cannot connect to the national power grid, these systems have battery backup, to deliver power during night or periods of low sunshine.
- Hybrid Solar Systems: These systems include both grid-integrated systems and standalone systems. They are integrated into the grid, and some of them are equipped with battery storage to ensure high adaptability and continuity of the supply.
Wanna learn more about your choice of solar systems? Read here: Best Solar Hybrid off-grid inverter price in Pakistan
How Does Solar Energy Work? From Sun to Power
How solar systems work is a simple procedure from the sun’s majestic power to the components that complete the magic, here’s what makes the system:
- Solar Panels: Starting from solar panels or solar plates, are primarily responsible for changing sunlight into electricity. These solar plates are made of PV cells.
- Then these are grouped in a solar array which in combination makes the overall solar system panel.
- Inverter: It is used to convert the DC from the solar plates into AC so that appliances can be operated using the energy.
- Battery Storage (optional): For off-grid or hybrid system users, batteries serve the purpose of storing the excess energy generated during the day for nighttime use or during a power blackout.
- Net Meter: In an on-grid system, the net meter measures the amount of electricity you are exporting to the grid, and thus earns you credits for consumption in future, as per the amount of sunlight available during the day.
Learn more about net metering in Pakistan here
Solar Tech and Innovations
Solar tech remains alive and the improvement of new solar energy solutions is making systems cheaper and better. From the formation of the cumulus cells to alterations in the production of solar panels, the solar industry as a whole is improving with what it has to offer for the betterment of energy solutions for all.
In Pakistan, the solar plate rate today varies depending on the size and quality of the panels. For example, the solar panel price in Pakistan for a 5kW system can range from PKR 500,000 to 700,000, depending on brand and installation services. Larger systems like 22kW are also available for industrial use.
How to Install and Maintain Solar Systems
The story of savings and sustainability doesn’t end with installing solar systems. You must also know how to make solar systems last a long time with effective installation and regular maintenance. Opt for a reputable company to install your panels to ensure your plates are receiving maximum sunlight. Also, make sure that you keep checking for any errors in the system and schedule regular maintenance to keep it running smoothly and effectively.
If you are buying a used solar panel, maintenance should be your top priority. Dust and debris can have a huge impact on the panel’s functionality, so you have to ensure that you have clean solar panels that are free from any danger of damage.
Wanna learn in depth about solar system maintenance? Read here: How do I maintain my solar system?
A Sustainable Future With Feroze Power Ltd.
If you’re looking for expert assistance in setting up or maintaining your solar system, Feroze Power is a trusted provider of solar energy solutions in Pakistan. With extensive experience in both residential and commercial projects, Feroze Power ensures that your solar system operates at maximum efficiency, providing reliable power while reducing your carbon footprint.
