The Race to Increase Solar Panel Efficiency
Author: Jakob Jelling
In order for solar panels to compete in the energy market, they need to provide enough energy from the sun in order to power appliances and heat sources. There are many different materials available for use in generating solar energy, but typically the most efficient ones tend to be bulky.
While there are a number of individuals who can afford to install expensive solar panels, their sheer size may discourage them. Some people simply do not want to have a large block of panels on their property. While true green advocates may think this is a superficial concern, it is a reality for those who produce and install solar energy systems.
If commercial producers of solar products want to remain competitive, then improving solar panel efficiency is one way to do it. By increasing the efficiency in solar products, you lessen the need for bulky setups. Currently research regarding solar panels is focusing on improving solar panel efficiency.
There are two main focuses that research companies are focusing on to improve solar panel efficiency: first companies are examining different materials used to generate solar energy, and secondly they are reviewing different methods to process the materials used with solar efficient products.
The material that produces the greatest solar panel efficiency currently is single crystal silicon cells. These cells are comparatively thick, and involve extended amounts of processing to create. In ideal circumstances (a scientist lab) they come close to 30% efficiency. These cells have traditionally been used in solar panels so are the ones most on the market today.
Multi crystalline silicon solar cells go through similar processing as single crystalline solar cells but require less refining. The solar panel efficiency of this type of material is close to single crystal but the cost is less due to the decreased amount of processing.
Polymer solar cells are also making headway into the commercial market. These cells are made from polymers which are commonly found, and can be printed on materials almost like silk screening shirts. Companies that produce these products can use existing equipment to mass produce these cells. Their flexibility makes them ideal for a number of different products that can use them in their design. These solar cells have also been referred to as thin film solar cells. Unfortunately these cells have an efficiency rate of approximately eleven percent. Studies in this area are underway and it is expected that these thin film solar cells will become competitive in the commercial market within the next three years.
Currently silicone cells comprise approximately eighty-five percent of the solar panel market with thin film cells holding the other fifteen percent. While scientists continue to study other materials and processes, they have not yet become available outside of the lab. When efficiencies increase, and solar panels become less expensive, then we will start to see more products and individuals investing in them.
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/technology-articles/the-race-to-increase-solar-panel-efficiency-1772389.html
About the Author
Jakob Jelling runs http://www.solarpanelmanual.com which focuses on solar energy. Please visit his web site to learn more about solar panel efficiency.
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