Photovoltaic (PV) solar panels are devices that convert sunlight into electricity through a process called the photovoltaic effect. These panels are made up of many smaller units known as solar cells, typically made from semiconductor materials like silicon.
Here’s how they work step by step:
1. Absorption of Sunlight: Solar panels are designed to capture sunlight. When sunlight hits the surface of a solar panel, the energy from the light is absorbed by the semiconductor material (usually silicon) in the solar cells.
2. Generation of Electrical Charge: The energy from the sunlight excites electrons in the semiconductor, causing them to move. This movement of electrons creates a flow of electricity. The solar cells are specially designed with electric fields that direct the movement of these electrons.
3. Direct Current (DC) Electricity: The movement of electrons creates a flow of electricity in the form of direct current (DC), which is the type of electrical current generated by solar panels. However, most homes and businesses use alternating current (AC) electricity.
4. Conversion to AC: To make the DC electricity usable in your home or business, it passes through a solar inverter, which converts the DC electricity into AC electricity. This allows it to power devices, lights, appliances, and more.
5. Powering Your Home or Sending Power to the Grid: Once the electricity is converted to AC, it can either be used immediately to power your home or business or be stored in batteries for later use. If there’s excess electricity, it can be sent back to the electrical grid, where it can be used by others.
In Summary: Solar panels harness sunlight, convert it into electricity, and make it usable for your needs. This renewable energy source helps reduce dependence on fossil fuels, lowers electricity bills, and contributes to a cleaner, more sustainable future.
Hanwha QCell solar panels are our top pick right now for solar panel installations in Tucson and Southern Arizona. They offer great performance at a lower price point, making them an ideal "best" cost per kilowatt choice for most installations. Most QCell panels installed are manufactured in Dalton, Georgia, USA.
Key Features of Hanwha QCells Solar Panels:
1. Q.ANTUM Technology
Hanwha Q CELLS' Q.ANTUM technology is a proprietary innovation that enhances the efficiency of their solar panels. This technology improves light absorption and minimizes energy loss, even under low-light conditions. It ensures that more electricity is generated from the available sunlight, increasing the overall output of the panels.
Passivated Emitter and Rear Contact (PERC): Q.ANTUM technology includes PERC, which improves the electrical efficiency by capturing more sunlight and reducing the reflection of light on the cell's surface.
2. Anti-PID (Potential Induced Degradation) Technology
Q CELLS panels are designed with Anti-PID technology to protect the panels from potential-induced degradation, a common issue with solar panels exposed to high voltages, humidity, and temperature fluctuations. This feature ensures that the panels retain their performance over time, reducing power loss and maintaining the long-term efficiency of the system.
3. Enhanced Durability with Stronger Frames
Q CELLS uses stronger, corrosion-resistant frames made from anodized aluminum to enhance the structural integrity of their panels. This ensures they can withstand extreme weather conditions, including heavy snow, rain, and wind. Their durability makes them a great choice for areas with harsh climates.
4. Excellent Low-Light Performance
Thanks to their Q.ANTUM and PERC technologies, Q CELLS panels perform exceptionally well in low-light environments, such as overcast days or mornings/evenings when the sun is low on the horizon. This allows for more consistent energy generation throughout the day, even in suboptimal lighting conditions.
5. Temperature CoefficientThe temperature coefficient of a solar panel indicates how much power the panel loses as the temperature rises. Q CELLS panels have a low temperature coefficient, meaning they perform better in hot climates where other panels may experience more significant power losses due to heat.
Temperature Coefficient: Typically around -0.37%/°C, this allows Q CELLS panels to maintain performance even in high temperatures, making them suitable for sunny, hot regions.
6. Aesthetics and Design
Q CELLS panels are designed to be sleek and modern, making them an attractive addition to residential and commercial properties. The panels have a uniform, all-black appearance (in select models), which enhances the visual appeal of the installation, blending seamlessly with the roof and surrounding environment.
7. Certifications and Compliance
Hanwha Q CELLS panels comply with the highest international standards for safety and performance. They are certified by organizations such as:
- IEC 61215 (design qualification)
- IEC 61730 (safety qualification)
- UL 1703 (for North American markets)
- ISO 9001 (quality management)
These certifications ensure that Q CELLS panels meet rigorous quality and safety standards, giving homeowners and businesses confidence in the products' reliability and performance.
Conclusion:
Hanwha Q CELLS solar panels offer numerous benefits, including high efficiency, durability, and long-term performance, all backed by strong warranties. With innovative features like Q.ANTUM technology and Anti-PID technology, they maximize energy output, even under challenging conditions such as low light or high temperatures. Their robust build, sleek design, and cost-effectiveness make them an excellent choice for homeowners and businesses looking to invest in solar energy. Whether you live in a region with harsh weather conditions or simply want a high-performing solar solution, Hanwha Q CELLS solar panels provide an efficient, reliable, and sustainable option for your energy needs.
