When we talk about the “renewable energy” sector, two very characteristic elements come to mind: Solar panels and Wind turbines. At Greenvolt Next, we specialize in photovoltaic solar energy, which means that the focus of our work is on solar panels, which we’ll discuss below.
Solar panels have gained great prominence in recent years in Europe, becoming a common element in the urban landscape. The level of knowledge that society has about solar panels is increasing in general aspects, but not so much in the particularities of each one.
In a very general sense, solar panels are devices that harness the energy of the sun to generate heat or electricity. Regarding the types of solar panels, not all are the same nor do they perform the same function. We distinguish the following in relation to their purpose:
Photovoltaic solar panels
Photovoltaic Solar panels are individual photovoltaic modules that capture the energy provided by the sun and convert it into electricity. They are devices made up of numerous solar cells (called photovoltaic cells) that can produce electricity from the light that shines on them through the photovoltaic effect.
These photovoltaic cells, which are usually made of crystalline silicon or gallium arsenide, are mixed with other components such as phosphorus or boron that modify their conductive properties, creating a negative and positive charge. When exposed to the sun, photons (light energy) move electrons (electric energy), and a continuous current is produced which, through an inverter, is transformed into alternating current, which is what households receive.
Currently, there are mainly two types of photovoltaic solar panels:
– Monocrystalline: composed of single-crystal cells, it is characterized by being very efficient and having a long lifespan, ideal for cold climates.
– Polycrystalline: panels made of multiple crystals, they are cheaper than monocrystalline ones but have lower efficiency. Ideal for warm climates.
Solar thermal panels
Solar thermal panels, also known as collector solar panels, use the energy of the sun to heat liquids, mainly water. We can differentiate two types:
– Flat plate collectors: consisting of a dark plate covered by a glass sheet and five remaining opaque faces through which a fluid carries the heat to a water tank.
– Vacuum tube collectors: they have an external cover and several empty tubes in which the linear collectors are located. In this case, the liquid circulates through the mast to which the tubes are attached.
Hybrid solar panels
These panels harness solar energy to produce both electricity and heat simultaneously. This makes them especially efficient and versatile.
In summary, solar panels are a fundamental part of the renewable energy landscape, offering various options to efficiently harness the sun’s energy. At Greenvolt Next, we specialize in photovoltaic solar energy, providing solutions tailored to individual needs, thereby contributing to a transition towards a more sustainable and energy-efficient future.
