Solar panels
What’s a solar panel?
Solar panels are devices that turn sunlight into electricity. They’re made up of many smaller solar cells connected together; each cell generates electricity when sunlight hits it, and then that power flows into an inverter and finally into your house. Because each panel creates only a certain amount of energy, solar panels are typically grouped together into an array. Read more on our page about how solar panels work.
Different types of solar panels
Most solar panels are made with silicon, which is naturally photovoltaic (meaning it can make energy from sunlight). Monocrystalline silicon panels are most efficient, so they can make more energy in a smaller amount of space. Polycrystalline silicon panels have less silicon in them, so they’re a little bigger, but they’re also less expensive. Another type of solar panels use “thin film” technology. Although these are cheaper to make, they’re much less efficient. Solar shingles, which are made to blend in with regular shingles, are also less efficient. Last, solar hot water systems use the sun’s energy directly to heat water or other liquids, instead of converting sunlight into electricity. Here’s more detail about different types of solar panels.
What’s so great about solar panels?
Since sunlight is free, after you’ve paid for your solar panels, you’ll pretty much be getting free electricity, with just some basic fees from your utility company. That can save a huge amount of money over time. With various solar incentives, like the Federal Solar Tax Credit, SRECs, and state and local rebates, it’s getting more and more affordable to get new solar panels. Solar panels also have huge environmental benefits. Since they aren’t generating energy from fossil fuels, they are a great way to help reduce carbon emissions and fight climate change.
What 1BOG does…
Most people think that solar is too expensive or too complicated. 1BOG helps by organizing groups of people in communities, and then negotiating big discounts with local installers. Joining a 1BOG campaign is free and can save you around 15%! 1BOG also helps make the somewhat complicated process of going solar easier. We have a team of solar advisors ready to help, and because we’re experience at working with solar installers, we can make sure you’re getting the best service and equipment. Our website is also filled with details on all you need to know about solar power. Sign up with 1BOG to learn more.
