Solar modulesSiliconA chemical element that is a semiconductor. Is used a pure form in solar cells, usually in thin layers called silicon wafers. is the most prevalent element on Earth after oxygen which makes it a very inexpensive and nearly inexhaustible natural resource. In order to make use of it for photovoltaic purposes though, a complicated, multi-step process is necessary. Simple silica sand is transformed into pure crystalline silicon. There are several types, depending on the crystal structure and production method:
Monocrystalline solar cells are black or dark blue in color. They are made up of just one crystal and have the highest efficiency factor of all silicon cells. They are preferred in situations where available surface area is limited. Their lifespan is at least 20 years.
Polycrystalline or multi-crystalline solar cells have a blue surface. Their crystal structure is only partially ordered giving them less voltage which means a somewhat lower efficiency factor. Polycrystalline cells are easier to manufacture, cheaper to produce and are the most used technology in the photovoltaic sector.
Thin film modules are dark red or dark brown in color. They are made up of a thin, amorphous silicon layer. Thanks to their low material consumption and low price, they are prized in projects where large surfaces are to be covered. They have a low efficiency factor in bright sunlight, but they offer many advantages in low light and diffuse light as well as in higher temperature climates. How light and temperature influence performance The higher the exposure to sunlight, the more voltage is released in the solar cells, and the higher the performance of the photovoltaic installation. In the morning and evening as well as in fog or under thick cloud cover, performance is lower but photovoltaic installations still produce electricity in diffuse light.
The lower the temperature, the higher the voltage released in the solar cells and the higher the electricity generation. It may seem counterintuitive, but solar modules function better in colder weather than in blazing heat. A good ventilation of solar modules lowers their core temperature and increases their performance. How the performance of solar modules is measured When solar modules perform at their best it is called peak performance and denoted with a small “p” behind the kilowatt measurement: kWpThe maximum possible output of a solar generator operating under standard conditions is defined as its peak output, which is measured in watts or kilowatts and stated as either Wp (watt, peak) or kWp, respectively.. This value indicates the performance of a solar module under full sun exposure and in defined testing conditions.
Peak performanceWhen solar modules perform at their best it is called peak performance and denoted with a small “p” behind the kilowatt measurement: kWp. This value indicates the performance of a solar module under full sun exposure and in defined testing conditions. Peak performance is often called nominal output. It is based on measurements taken under optimal conditions. is often called effective output. It is based on measurements taken under optimal conditions. Generally the actual performance in practical application is 15-20% lower.
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