The decision to install solar panels depends on many factors that you must consider in detail. But the main thing is to understand solar energy, which, although it seems like an obvious topic, has nuances.

☀️ What is this type of energy?

It is the radiant energy that It is obtained from the Sun and converted into various useful forms of energy, such as electricity or thermal heat. It is renewable and clean, since it does not produce greenhouse gas emissions or pollutants during its generation.

There are three main types of technologies for harnessing solar energy:

1. Photovoltaic Solar Energy:

This technology directly converts sunlight into electricity using photovoltaic solar panels. The energy generated can be used immediately, stored in batteries for future use, or even injected into the electrical grid. Within photovoltaic solar energy, there are two options:

- Rooftop systems: solar panels are installed on the roof of buildings to generate electricity for local use.

- Solar plants: large areas of solar panels on the ground or in raised structures that generate electricity on a large scale.

‍2. Solar Thermal Energy:

‍This technology uses solar radiation to heat a fluid, which is then used to generate heat or produce steam that drives turbines to generate electricity. There are two main types:

- Flat solar collectors: they capture solar radiation and use it to heat a liquid, which is then used for heating or hot water in residential and commercial buildings.

 - Solar concentrators: they concentrate sunlight on a focal point, generating high temperatures that can be used to produce steam and generate electricity.‍

3. Passive Solar Energy:

Which directly exploits the Sun's energy without transforming it.

💡 I'm going to invest in solar panels

It's a great decision, but before making it, you have to consider the following questions that we ask you:

1. Energy consumption: How much energy does the space you want to supply consume on average? If consumption is high, installing solar panels could be more beneficial in terms of long-term cost savings.
2. Financial viability: Do you have the necessary initial budget for the installation of solar panels? Initial investments can be significant.
3. Incentives and funding: Does your region offer tax incentives, grants or financing programs for the installation of solar panels? These factors significantly reduce initial costs. We recommend that you do your research on possible help.
4. Environmental Awareness: Do you value sustainability and reducing your carbon footprint? Installing solar panels reduces environmental impact and can also improve your brand image, and attract customers looking for greener options.
5. Space availability: Do you have enough space on the roof or on the property to install solar panels effectively? The space you have will influence the amount of energy you can generate.
6. Maintenance and monitoring: Are you willing to perform the necessary maintenance to ensure the optimal performance of the solar panels? Regular inspections are important.

🧠 But first, what should I know?

You know that it can be an excellent option to reduce energy costs and promote environmental sustainability. But you have to take into account some economic and logistical aspects.

You must calculate the time it will take to recoverrecover this initial investment through savings in energy costs. This will give you an idea of the long-term profitability of the facility to determine if the facility is financially viable in the long term.

You should also consider the types of solar systems we mentioned at the beginning, and what your needs are. There are even floating systems if you have a pool. The choice of the type of installation will depend on the space available and its characteristics. A professional solar installer can help you determine the right number of solar panels needed.

They require minimum maintenance, such as the periodic cleaning, to ensure that no dust or dirt accumulates that could reduce its efficiency. It is also important to perform regular inspections to detect potential problems and ensure optimal performance.

♻️ We also have small print

Aside from the high initial investment, regular maintenance and the availability of space for installation, there are other disadvantages when using solar energy:

• Dependence on sunlight: on cloudy, rainy days or during the night, solar energy generation is limited or zero. This means that an energy storage system, such as batteries, is needed to ensure a constant supply during hours without sun. Its efficiency may vary depending on geographical location.
• Solar batteries: they are responsible for storing the excess energy generated during the day. They are expensive, have a limited lifecycle, and their storage function is diminishing. Its use is essential, since a solar panel has limited power and if it is not stored, this energy is sometimes not enough to meet your needs.
• Regulations, Permits and Grants: The installation of solar panels is subject to local regulations and requires permits. Meeting these requirements can take time. Managing permits and requesting grants involves eternal paperwork, which may vary depending on the type of property where the system is going to be installed, size, and location. If they are small installations, this process would take two or three weeks. For projects with a larger volume, it would take several months. Management and concession time may vary depending on local regulations.
• Waste disposal: Although solar energy is cleaner during operation, the manufacture and final disposal of solar panels can generate waste and have an environmental impact.
• Evolving Technology: solar technology continues to evolve, which means that current panels and systems could become obsolete in the future. This can lead to concerns about compatibility and the availability of spare parts in the long term. In the case of batteries, their lifecycle can range from 5 to 15 years, depending on the type and quality of it, the maintenance and use given to it, the temperature to which it is exposed. As for solar panels, these can last between 25 and 30 years. Obsolete is a reality due to the rapid progress in the development and research of this energy.

👩🏻 ‍ 💻 Your Polaroo manager informs you

From Polaroo we will always encourage you to be greener and so is your business. If you have questions about the installation of solar panels or the use of solar energy in your home or business, do not hesitate to contact your manager. Ask us!

We will continue to spread information about solar panel installation and solar energy, don't miss our next articles!

If you want to know more about Polaroo and about the advantages of hiring our service, you can consult the webpage.