Many homes and commercial buildings in both rural and urban areas of India receive an abundant amount of sunlight. In regions where there is ample sunlight, installing solar panels to generate electricity from solar energy can be highly beneficial. Using solar panels not only helps save money but also minimizes pollution. As global awareness grows about the dwindling energy resources and increasing pollution levels, humanity is increasingly turning towards solar energy as a sustainable alternative. Solar energy is generated by using solar panels that contain solar cells which convert sunlight into electricity through the photovoltaic effect. Let's learn more about rooftop solar systems, which are essential to understand.
What is a Rooftop Solar System?
As you know, energy cannot be created or destroyed, it can only be transformed from one form to another. When photons from sunlight hit the photovoltaic cells embedded in solar panels, they generate DC current through the photovoltaic effect. This current then flows through wires to reach an inverter, which converts it into AC current. We use this electricity to meet our energy needs. Rooftop solar systems involve installing solar panels on residential, commercial, institutional, and industrial buildings. These systems are categorized into two types: (i) rooftop solar systems with battery storage facilities and (ii) grid-connected rooftop solar systems.
Let’s explore the different types of rooftop solar systems:
1. On-grid Solar Rooftop System
In an on-grid solar rooftop system, the DC current is converted into AC current via an inverter and then fed back into the grid. A key advantage of the on-grid system is that if more electricity is produced than needed, it can be sent back to the power grid, and at times of higher demand, you can use those units for free. This saves both energy and money.
2. Off-grid Solar Rooftop System
An off-grid solar rooftop system includes solar panels connected to an inverter and a battery. The battery gets charged throughout the day using solar energy, allowing electricity usage even during the night. In areas with limited access to main grid supply, off-grid solar panels prove very beneficial due to their battery storage capabilities.
Main Components of a Solar Rooftop System
A solar rooftop system primarily requires solar panels, an inverter, a bi-directional meter, and a balance of system. For better understanding, let's delve deeper into each component.
Solar Panels/Photovoltaic Modules/Electric Panels
Solar panels convert sunlight into electricity. They are made of silicon cells, glass, polymers, and aluminum. Solar panels come in various sizes, colors, types, and forms depending on requirements. Solar panels with 12 or 24-volt ratings are typically used for off-grid systems. Solar panels with 36, 60, and 72 cells are commonly used for grid-connected rooftop systems.
Solar Inverter:
The solar inverter works with the help of a battery to convert DC current into AC current so that we can use this current for our electricity needs.
Balance of System:
Besides the above components, other equipment used in solar rooftop systems such as wiring, junction boxes, meters, fuses, circuit breakers, etc., are collectively known as Balance of System. These components ensure all parts of the solar system are properly connected for smooth operation.
What is Net Metering?
Energy shortages are nothing new in our country, and rising energy prices have also led to higher electricity bills. To address these issues, net metering has been introduced. With net metering, any excess electricity generated by your solar panels can be supplied back to the grid. For instance, if you produce 20 units of electricity through your solar panels but consume only 10 units, you can send the extra 10 units back to the grid. Through net metering, once you invest, you can enjoy a lifetime of bill-free electricity.
To expand solar energy nationwide, both central and state governments have initiated various projects. These projects aim to maximize electricity production, strengthen the economy, and create new employment opportunities at the grassroots level. Farmers often face challenges during irrigation due to power shortages. In response, the central government has launched the Kusum scheme, aiming to replace diesel or electric pumps with solar-powered ones on three crore farms by 2022. Farmers can also utilize non-productive land by installing solar equipment to improve its productivity. Additionally, the government has initiated a solar subsidy program, under which a certain percentage of the total cost of generating electricity from solar energy will be subsidized by the government. Among these initiatives is the National Solar Mission. This mission aims to develop a policy framework by 2022 to establish solar grids with a capacity of 20,000 megawatts and operate 2,000 megawatts of non-grid (solar off-grid) systems efficiently. The collective goal of these government initiatives is to position India as a leader in solar power on a global scale.
Related Posts You Might Be Interested In:
- How to Increase the Efficiency of Solar Panels?
- Is There an Ideal Time to Install Solar Panels?
- How to Save Money with Solar Panels? Read to Learn More.
- SolarGrid – Modern Power Solutions for Your Home.
These projects not only promote renewable energy but also contribute to economic growth and job creation across the nation.
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