The Different Types of Solar Technologies and Mounting Techniques
If you've been thinking about installing solar energy in your home, you've undoubtedly realized that there is a lot of different solar technology out there. There are so many choices you could find it hard to know what to choose. Continue reading if you need some help sorting everything out.
The most popular type of Solar racking panels are crystalline solar cells. When most people think of solar energy it is this material that they think of. They are the flat, shiny squares that you see on the roofs of homes and businesses. These are a great way to produce a fuel-free source of electricity but there are other materials for solar panels.
Thin film is another type of material that is used in solar technology. Its popularity is growing yearly. Most people choose this material when the building they want outfitted with solar technology is not architecturally right for crystalline silicon.
Another option for those interested in solar energy is solar thermal systems. It does not turn the water into energy but instead uses the heat from the sun to warm water. This is a solar solution for a water heater. Solar thermal systems are usually enough for an entire house and will need to be used along with other solar energy methods. And there are other solar energy solutions such as mirrors.
Once you've decided on the type of solar energy system you want, you have to consider the various mounts. More about this are described at http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/1532141/solar-panel. Roof mounted systems are the most popular for a couple of reasons. People like them because they don't take up space that people are using. And being closer to the sun and away from obstructions is also a good thing.
Ground mounts are also an option. Ground mounts are great if you have a lot of extra space. If you have some soil that isn't very useful, solar energy systems are a good way to make use of it as they also get some energy from the ground.
After choosing whether or not you want a ground mount or a roof mount, you have to consider whether a fixed solution or a tracking system will be best for you. Fixed solutions are mounted in one place and never move while trackers are capable of following the sun. For most people, fixed solutions work just fine and are a little cheaper. For people who live in areas where the sunlight is not always strong, Solar trackers are the best choice.
There are so many solutions for solar energy but I couldn't possibly list them all here. But if you've been thinking about this, stop waiting and do it. You be helping your wallet and the planet by switching to solar energy.