Solar rooftops are the new enhancements in today's generation. Now, you will find many commercial and residential buildings with solar rooftops. In India, the solar capacity installed was about 61.625 GWAC on 31 October 2022. The country now ranks in the 4th position globally as of the 2021 report. The initiative was taken when access to power supply was unavailable in many rural sectors. There are many service providers available for solar rooftop installation.
Moreover, you will find millions of buildings that receive ample sunlight. Hence, it has become an ideal solution to convert solar energy into electric energy. The complete mechanism works by converting the DC power from solar panels to AC power to run electric appliances. Hence, it has become an effective solution for many regions across India. Let's understand the complete working process in detail, along with its benefits.
Working Mechanism Of Solar Rooftops
The complete system runs on its own with its batteries. From the solar rooftop, power is generated, which further charges the battery. After the battery gets charged up, it is used to power up electronic appliances. Hence, this solar rooftop system with panels is beneficial in reasons where there is no access to the power supply. It is also efficient for remote locations which face frequent breakdowns. Let's understand the complete working mechanism in detail;
The panels on the solar rooftops depend on photovoltaic cells, which are integrated into the panels. The basic working principle of the solar panel is to absorb the sun's energy and then convert it into electricity. The photovoltaic cells of solar panels are made of materials such as silicon, which acts as semiconductors. After the energy is absorbed by the cells, a chemical reaction occurs between them. Further, the electrons are released, and an electric current is generated.
When you go into detail about the components of photovoltaic cells on the rooftop, it has layers of silicon crystal-based materials. Then, positive charges are generated at the cell's bottom layer. The bottom cell layer is loaded with boron which forms a bond with silicon. At the same time, the negative charge is generated at the top cell layer, which has phosphorus. Finally, an electric field is formed by the movement between the layers, which is known as the P-N junction.
When solar cells receive solar energy, electrons get knocked out from the layers. Then, the electron flows as the layers possess opposite charges. Further, it moves to the external circuit through. Now, electricity is generated and carried out for multiple uses.
How The Electricity Generated From The Solar Rooftop Is Utilised?
The electricity generated from the solar rooftop panels is in the form of DC. And it is not applicable for powering up home appliances. Therefore, the inverter is installed in buildings that have solar rooftops. It converts the DC into AC. It flows the current via a service panel. Further, it is safely used to power electronic appliances.
The system comes with a solar metre which is the power generated by the solar rooftop. It also keeps track of potential issues. This is how solar energy is converted into electric energy with solar rooftops.
How Long Does The Solar Rooftop Panels Last?
Solar rooftop panels, which are also known as PV panels, can last more than 25 years. With an average estimation, it can last up to 30 years. The solar rooftop panels installed in1980s are still working with good capacity and efficiency. Hence, these are reliable enough due to their extended life span.
What Maintenance Is Required To Make It Work Longer?
The solar rooftop panels don't need any high maintenance. The maintenance requirement is minimal. You don't need any particular tools or equipment for it. When the solar panels are tilted, the rainwater can easily wash out the dust particles and debris. Even many service providers recommend cleaning the rooftop panels two to four times annually.
You can use a tracking app to track the energy consumed by solar rooftop panels. When you notice a dip or decrease in power generation, you must know it is time to clean your solar panels. Regular practice of maintenance, for example, wiping out dust and debris, can make the complete system work more effectively. The maintenance is not covered under warranties, but if it is damaged in any case, it can be covered.
What Are The Applications Of Solar Rooftops Panels?
Solar rooftop panels supply power to devices such as computers, printers, laptops and other devices. Moreover, it can supply power to television, fridge, washing machine, fan, food processor, cooler etc.
Also, it is utilised in large industries and factories to run machines.
