What Is Solar Energy? Advantages, Factors to Consider, and Installation Process
As global warming and rising temperatures become more pressing, many people in Nigeria are turning to green energy sources like solar and wind to help protect our environment. Among these, solar energy stands out as a popular choice. Suppose you’re considering switching to solar power and want to know more. In that case, this guide will help you understand what solar energy is, its advantages, factors to consider, and the installation process.
What Is Solar Energy?
Solar energy uses the Sun’s heat and light to generate electricity. It is an inexpensive, clean, and renewable energy source that can be harnessed almost anywhere in the world. Any place where sunlight hits the Earth’s surface can generate energy using solar power.
Fun fact: The amount of energy from the Sun that reaches the Earth in just one hour is more than the energy used by the entire world in one year! Solar panels are the most widely used technology to convert sunlight into electricity for homes and businesses.
How Does Solar Energy Work?
There are many ways to harness energy from the Sun, but the two most popular methods are solar thermal capture and photovoltaics (PVs). PVs can be used for small projects, like powering homes, and large projects, like powering entire communities. Solar thermal capture is mainly used to produce electricity on a large scale.
Solar energy is the fastest-growing renewable energy source in the world, and thanks to new scientific developments, it’s becoming more efficient each year.
What Are the Advantages of Solar Energy?
Solar energy offers many benefits, making it an attractive option for homes and businesses in Nigeria:
- Renewable Source of Energy:
- Solar energy is renewable and sustainable. We will only run out of it if the Sun exists. It can be harnessed almost anywhere in Nigeria.
- Cost Savings:
- Using solar energy can reduce your electricity bills. The savings depend on the size of your solar panel system and how much power it generates.
- Minimal Maintenance:
- Solar panels require very little maintenance. They only need to be kept clean and usually come with a warranty of up to 25 years.
- Environmental Benefits:
- Switching to solar energy helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions, creating a cleaner and greener environment.
What Factors to Consider When Choosing Solar Panels?
When buying solar panels for your home in Nigeria, consider the following factors:
- Roof Condition:
- Ensure your roof is in good condition. If not, you might need to repair it before installing solar panels.
- Duration of Stay:
- Think about how long you plan to stay in your current home. Solar panels are a long-term investment, so if you plan to move soon, installing them at your new house might be better.
- Energy Needs:
- Assess your energy needs to determine the size of the solar panel system required.
- Direction and Angle:
- The direction and angle of the solar panels are crucial for maximising energy production. Panels should ideally face the sun directly for the best performance.
Installation Process for Solar Panels
Here’s a simple overview of the solar panel installation process:
- Set Up Your Roof:
- Prepare your roof for installation.
- Install the Mounting System:
- This system will support the base of the solar panels.
- Install the Solar Panels:
- Place the solar panels on the mounting system.
- Wire the Panels Together:
- Connect all the solar panels.
- Set Up the Solar Inverter:
- Install the inverter to convert the solar energy into usable electricity.
- Connect the Solar Battery:
- If you have a solar battery, connect it to the inverter.
- Connect to the Consumer Unit:
- Finally, connect the inverter to your home’s consumer unit.
If you need assistance with the best solar components and installation, you can seek guidance from our solar experts. At Luminous, we offer a wide range of quality solar products at affordable prices. Visit our e-shop to explore our extensive range of products.
