How do Solar Panels Work?

A photvoltaic (pv) panel consists of a number of silicon cells (usually 36) connected internally in series. When light reaches these cells, electrons are caused to drift, which produces an electric current. This current varies with the size of individual cells and the light intensity.

What can they supply?

PV panels are usually used to charge 12v batteries for a wide variety of uses from telecommunications and navigation systems, remote third world villages to caravans, holiday cottages and boats. Single panels are available in sizes from 5 watts to 120 watts and can be connected in parallel to give higher currents or is series to produce higher voltages. (Note: when connected in series, panels must be of equal current rating).

Power Output.

Whenever exposed to daylight PV panels will produce a more or less constant output voltage. This mans that even in temperate zones in winter, a useful charging current can be produced. This output current, however, does vary with light intensity. The rated output of all panels are measured by a standard illumination of 1kw/m (1 sun) at a temperature of 25 degrees c.. For example, you could expect the following average daily amp/hrs from modules mounted at their optimum tilt angle facing south:

Lite Modules

Solarex's 'Lite' modules are a lightweight yet rugged range of photovoltaic panels designed to be slimline so that they are simple to install on flat surfaces and are semi-flexible to allow for a gentle curvature of a coach roof as on caravans and boats.

• Semi-crystalline silicon solar cells
• Tough non-slip tedlar front cover
• Stainless steel sub-strate
• Moisture resistant metallization ensures electrical integrity in severe climates
• Supplied with 3m of cable from potted junction box
• Module is only 3mm thick, 10mm including junction box
• Supplied as 12v units, can be linked for 2

Specification

Mega Modules

Mega modules are Solarex's range of framed, glass fronted panels available in a variety of output and physical sizes. They are suited for permanent and temporary installations.

• Constructed of 36 semi-crystalline silicon solar cells
• Tempered glass sub-strate is self cleaning, highly transmissive and impact resistant
• Anodised aluminium frame is corrosion resistant and compatible with Solarex mounting structures Easy to access and wire weatherproof terminal box
• Rugged and weatherproof construction the cells are laminated between sheets of ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) and tempered glass with a durable backsheet
• Withstand repetitive cycling between -40 degrees C. and 90 degrees C.
• Withstand windloading exceeding 125mph.
• Withstand impact of a one inch hail stone at 52mph · Meets ISPRA and JPL Block V test criteria and is approved by Factory Mutual Research for application in NEC Class 1, Division 2, Group D hazardous locations

Specification

Prices

All Solarex products are individually tested and labelled. A 20 year Performance Warranty, guaranteeing that the solar module will continue to deliver a minimum of 80% of it's rated power for 20 years is given with all modules rated at 40w and above. Even the lower power Mega modules carry a 10 year performance warranty.