What You Should Know about Solar Energy for Schools Benefits

Published on: 10 November 2018 Last Updated on: 22 February 2020
Solar Energy

The use of solar energy has grown by leaps and bounds in recent times, and now, you don’t just see it in residential or commercial buildings any longer – solar panel systems are now being utilised for more schools as well. The government encourages this growth and has even come up with its own form of support for schools and other educational institutions wanting to go solar. There are indeed a lot of benefits brought by having your own solar energy, but what else can you expect from it? How can you make sure that your solar investment is fully utilised? Here’s everything you need to know about solar energy for schools: benefits, expectations, and more.

How you can save on expenses – and earn:

With solar energy, there are three ways through which you can save and earn on your expenses. One way is with your actual usage of energy from the grid. Since you produce your own energy, your energy usage from the grid will go down, thus resulting in lower electricity bills. The second way is through what you can earn based on the electricity your panels can produce. This the Feed In Tariff. The third way through which you can save and make money is when you get paid for whatever electricity isn’t used by your school. This is referred to as the Export Tariff.

Will the sun be enough?

This is one of the more common questions asked by many, and the answer is a simple yes. There is enough sun, even in the UK, for your solar panel system to work – and work well, at that. Although bright sunlight is always best in regard to solar energy, your solar panel system will continue to produce energy even when the days are cloudy. For every 1 kilowatt of solar panel installed, you can expect to produce an average of between 750 to 900-kilowatt hours of energy. If you are located in the south, your system will generate even more.

Is it the best solution for my school?

Granted, while a solar energy system is generally a good and worthwhile investment, you still have to be sure that it’s the right solution for your school, as experts in solar in Cheshire like Atlantic Renewables attest. Many of the schools in the UK are suitable, however. For instance, does your school have a roof that is flat or pitched and is the roof facing south-east, south-west, or south? If it is, that’s already good news. Also, if you don’t have any buildings or trees shadowing your roof, this is a good sign as well. You should also have a strong roof, although most roofs are already strong enough to hold solar panels.

How to pay for it:

There are different things you can do to help you pay for a solar panel system for your school, one of which is help from your local education authority. You can ask them to provide you with the capital you need at a very low or even zero rate of interest. Another way through which you can finance your solar panel system is to go to your local council. Community funding is also possible, and you may be surprised at how many communities have already worked together to bring a solar energy system to fruition for schools.

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What Is A Solar Park Like? Discover The Heart Of Solar Energy!

What Is A Solar Park Like? Discover The Heart Of Solar Energy!

Hello to all the solar energy enthusiasts! Today, let's dive into the fascinating world of a solar park.  If you've ever wondered what a solar park is like and what makes it work so efficiently, you're in the right place. Join us on this solar journey and discover the secrets behind a solar park, with a special focus on Soltec USA's solar tracking systems. What is a Solar Park? First, let's get some context. A solar park is a large-scale installation where solar panels are used to convert sunlight into electricity.  These parks can vary in size, from small community projects to massive installations supplying energy to thousands of homes. But what makes a solar park so special and efficient?  The answer lies in the combination of advanced technology and smart design. The Infrastructure of a Solar Park We need to know its main components to understand how a solar park works. Here are the key elements: 1. Solar Panels Solar panels are the heart of any solar park. These photovoltaic devices capture the sun's energy and convert it into electricity.  In a typical solar park, thousands of panels are arranged in long rows, all oriented to maximize sunlight capture. 2. Inverters The electricity generated by solar panels is direct current (DC). For this electricity to be useful in our homes and businesses, it needs to be converted into alternating current (AC).  This is where inverters come in. These devices transform DC electricity into AC, making it compatible with the power grid. 3. Solar Tracking Systems This is where the magic really happens. A solar tracking system allows the panels to follow the sun's movement throughout the day.  Instead of remaining stationary, the panels move to maintain optimal orientation to the sun. This can significantly increase the amount of energy produced.  Soltec USA is a leader in this technology, offering high-end solutions that maximize energy efficiency. 4. Transformers and Substations Once the electricity has been converted to AC, it needs to be transmitted to the power grid.  Transformers step up the voltage of the electricity so it can travel long distances without significant losses. Substations manage the distribution of this electricity to different destinations. The Role of Soltec USA's Solar Tracking Systems Solar tracking systems are a vital part of an efficient solar park. Let's delve into how they work and why they are so important. A solar farm has unmatched functionality when it comes to creating sustainable energy resources. But, maintaining a solar farm is equally important in terms of utilizing it efficiency.  One such matter of maintenance is having a solar tracking system for your farm. Here are some of the solar energy tracking functionality which can make running your solar farm even easier. There are three types of solar tracking: Manual Solar Tracking Manual solar checking is the most tedious one in a solar farm. This is when a person has to literally walk towards every solar panel, check the energy level, and then tilt the panel towards the sun from time to time. The solar panel cannot remain at a tilt towards the at all times, as this risks damage. Passive Solar Trackers Passive trackers consist of an internal mechanism consisting of a liquid reaching a boiling point. When one exposes the panel to the solar radiation, the liquid begins to boil. Hence, this is a sign that the saved solar energy is being utilized. During utilization, the liquid evaporates. Once there is no boiling liquid in it, then there is an imbalance in the solar panel. This automatically causes the panel to tilt towards the sun. Automatic Solar Trackers Automatic solar tractors have even higher mechanisms. They consist of electric motors, and hydraulic cylinders which change the position or tilt of the panels on their own. It is a fully automated process with very little human interruptions, which is again limited to cleaning & maintenance (when necessary). This form of automatic solar tractor can be divided into two parts: Single axis solar tracker: This tracks the movement of the sun from east to west, ensuring proper collection of the solar radiation. Double-axis solar tracker: They have two axes that tilt from east to west and north to south. This type of solar tracker is perfect for commercial solar farms that run completely on solar energy. Maximize Collection As a commercial solar farm, you should always opt for the automatic solar tracker, as it improves its collection efficiency. The position of solar radiation changes throughout the day. Mornings are when you get the highest solar radiation from the east. Then as sunset approaches, the strength increases towards the west.  Therefore, a solar radiation only facing one side doesn’t guarantee maximum collection. This is why trackers play such a crucial role. Adaptability If your solar farm is on a higher altitude or a location with heavy clouds, a solar tracker’s adaptability is of great assistance. Thus, an automatic tracker can locate the spot where solar radiation is the highest and collect it efficiently. Gets More Sunlight The sun is up way before we are! Plus, we do not register the solar radiation at dawn and dusk to be strong enough to generate solar power. Turns out they are! Therefore, the tracker will help to efficiently get the most of the sunlight throughout the day.  Advantages of Solar Parks If you are still contemplating whether you should install a solar farm for your personal and commercial purposes, then keep reading. We understand the matter of budget. Yes, installing an entire farm is a matter of high investment. However, understanding the advantages that you can utilize for years to come will definitely make it cost-effective. 1. Clean and Renewable Energy If sustainability is what you are striving towards, then look no further. Fortunately, with the help of modern technology, we are able to utilize a very important natural resource. With further improvements, we are now able to bring that to our everyday domestic usage. With solar-powered everything, you are using clean, renewable energy. This leads to less air pollution, a major decrease in your carbon footprint, and, overall, contributes to a better future. 2. Low Operating Costs Once a solar park is up and running, operating and maintenance costs are relatively low. For example, Soltec USA's tracking systems require minimal maintenance thanks to their robust and efficient design. 3. Job Creation The construction and operation of solar parks create jobs in various areas, from engineering and construction to maintenance and administration. 4. Energy Independence Solar parks can help communities become more energy-independent, reducing their reliance on energy imports and improving energy security. The Final Note! A solar park is a masterpiece of engineering and sustainability, combining solar panels, inverters, transformers, and advanced solar tracking systems.  These components work together to efficiently and sustainably convert sunlight into clean, renewable electricity. Plus, we hope this article was able to provide you with a clear and fascinating insight into the functions o a solar park.  Next time you see a solar installation, you'll know that behind those panels is a complex network of technology. Matched with design that is working tirelessly to harness every ray of sunlight.  The energy of the future is here, and it's brighter than ever! 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Five Factors That Impact Solar Panel Installation And Maintenance Costs

More homeowners are increasingly turning to solar power as an alternative energy source due to its ability to lower electricity bills and boost home resale values. While going green is an excellent move, installing and maintaining solar power systems are associated with high costs. By learning about the factors influencing them, you can easily decide if switching to solar power is worth your hard-earned money. Here Are Five Prime Factors That Impact Solar Panel Installation And Maintenance Costs 1. Your preferred solar panel contractor Selecting the right solar panel installer is critical as you transition to a more sustainable lifestyle. Proper installation and maintenance can make or break your project's cost-effectiveness, so don't be tempted by low prices alone! To get ahead of potential problems down the road, research companies for their qualifications and reviews before making any commitments. Investing in an experienced contractor may come at a higher upfront price tag but will ensure successful integration into renewable energy sources with long-term savings benefits. When you contact us, we will answer any inquiries regarding the cost of our solar power installation and maintenance solutions. 2. Roof type and angle The type and angle of your roof significantly impact your solar panel's installation cost and maintenance. Roofs that are flat, slate, or shingle can be challenging to work with, and installation may take more time and effort, which leads to higher costs. The angle and orientation of the roof also play a role. A roof with a steep slope facing south will provide optimum sun exposure, reducing installation costs and improving energy production. 3. Structural issues Structural issues also affect solar panel installation costs and maintenance. The integrity of the roof and the structural load-bearing capability are essential considerations. Reinforcement may be necessary if the roof cannot accommodate the solar panel's weight, which will increase installation costs. Similarly, any structural issues that require repairs, such as rot, sagging, or cracks, would require rectification before installation, which increases installation costs. 4. Solar system add-ons When upgrading your solar power system, several accessories could enhance its performance. Battery backup systems can store excess energy for later use and offer protection when the sun isn't shining as brightly or in case of an outage. While these add-ons come with additional costs upfront, they may provide long-term financial savings, greater reliability to offset any weather variations affecting production levels, and added peace of mind during emergencies. 5. Local costs Local codes and regulations can also influence solar power installation cost and maintenance. Permits and interconnection fees, for example, can vary between localities, and you must confirm any costs before proceeding with the installation. Licensing, inspection, and maintenance costs are additional expenses that may be imposed in your locality. Conclusion Investing in a solar energy system could be an effective way to reduce your utility bills. Still, the timeline of when you can expect to see those savings depends on several factors. In sunny areas with high current energy costs, these systems can pay off within five years, though other locations may have longer wait times that stretch out into ten or 20-year cycles before any real return is seen. It ultimately comes down to your value on environmentally friendly solutions and long-term investments versus the more immediate financial gains from traditional power generation sources. Read Also: Ready Rooftops – How to Install Solar Panels 8 Tips For Choosing Solar Panels For Outdoor Activity How Much Do You Save With Solar Panels? The Ultimate Guide

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Why Do Some Solar Power Systems Include A Battery?

When you go to purchase a solar power system, you will find a variety of options. Some will include a battery. Others will not. The battery can either be a battery that stores the energy of the sun, one that stores the power of the wind, or a combination of the two. Lithium-Ion Batteries Lithium-ion batteries are a type of rechargeable battery that provides more storage capacity without taking up more space than lead-acid batteries. These types of batteries are useful for off-grid power stations. They have high charging and discharging efficiencies and long service life. However, lithium batteries do have their limitations. These include the potential to catch fire. Furthermore, the battery's lifespan depends on how deep it is charged. This is known as the Depth of Discharge or DoD. Most lithium solar batteries have a DoD of about 95%. 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Generally, lithium batteries have a round-trip efficiency of between 90 and 95 percent. Some lithium solar batteries require three stages of charging. The first stage charges the battery until it is about 90 percent full. This is done by using a voltage regulator charge controller. At this point, the battery begins to drain the amperage. The second stage of charging is where the battery is charged for a short period of time until the amperage is nearly full. If you use a store charger, this will increase the discharge rate. Because of the sensitivity of the battery to temperature, it is advisable to choose a battery that is designed for cold or warm weather conditions. Lithium-ion batteries are generally more forgiving than lead-acid batteries. However, they may still need to be replaced in the future. Therefore, it is important to look for a company that has an excellent track record of customer satisfaction. Another important consideration is the warranty. Ideally, you should be able to buy the battery with a warranty that guarantees the specific capacity of the battery. The warranty should also state how many cycles and years of good performance it can provide. Choosing the right battery for your solar panel system is dependent on many factors. You will need to consider the frequency of discharging, the amount of available space, and the installation method. DC Coupling DC coupling in solar power systems is the process by which electricity generated by photovoltaic panels is routed directly into the batteries of an energy storage system. This can help reduce the overall Levelized cost of energy (LCOE) and provide increased energy independence. In addition, it eliminates the need for a second inverter or additional controls. One of the main benefits of using a DC-coupled system is that it is more efficient. With an AC-coupled system, each DC output of a PV module must be converted to AC, resulting in efficiency losses. When the dc output of the PV modules is directly tied to the battery of an Energy Storage System, it is possible to maximize the amount of solar-generated electricity fed into the grid. While an AC-coupled system can be a viable option for some applications, a DC-coupled system is preferred for most projects. The reason is simple. These systems are easier to install and operate. They are also slightly more efficient than their AC counterparts. For this reason, they are considered the best choice for new solar+ storage installations. There are a variety of factors to consider when deciding between an AC and DC-coupled solar system. The specifics of a particular project will play a big role in this decision. However, one important factor is interconnection costs. Using the same inverter to charge and discharge your battery system can decrease the cost of the installation. Also, co-locating your assets will reduce the cost of land acquisition and permit applications. Another benefit of adding a battery bank to your PV system is that it can allow you to take advantage of tax credits. As a result, you can end up with a completely self-sufficient home. You will be able to store excess energy for use during periods of inclement weather or in the evening when the solar panels are no longer producing. DC coupling is a promising development in the field of energy storage. It is a newer system architecture that can increase the efficiency of an Energy Storage System. Unlike the AC counterpart, a DC-coupled system has direct current wiring. This allows for faster, simpler installation. Furthermore, the systems can be expanded. Inverters used in DC-coupled systems are usually smaller than those used in AC-coupled systems. Because of this, DC-coupled systems may be more suitable for residential or small commercial applications. Those that are more than 6kW will require multiple strings of solar panels. 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Another major benefit of a hybrid system is its capability to store and provide power in case of an outage. While a traditional grid system does not have the battery backup capacity to keep your lights and appliances running during a power outage, a hybrid power system can do just that. There are a number of components that go into making a hybrid system. These include batteries, an inverter, a combiner box, and a solar panel. Each of these items can be used to improve the efficiency of your system, which translates into lower costs and a longer lifespan. A hybrid solar system is especially appealing to consumers in areas that are prone to losing power for long periods of time. These systems can be a great way to cut down on your energy costs and help protect your house from future rate hikes. Also, a hybrid power system can be more environmentally friendly than a system fueled by fossil fuels. Most hybrid systems will use lithium-ion batteries as the main source of energy. Lithium-ion batteries are capable of holding more energy and have more capacities than lead-acid or other types of batteries. While a hybrid system may be a bit more expensive than a purely on-grid system, it is still much cheaper than an off-grid system. In addition, some utilities do not have retail rates for solar electricity. Even with a small solar array, you can save up to two-thirds of your electric bill. Another big advantage of a hybrid system is the fact that you will get credit for the amount of electricity you produce. Some utilities have net metering policies, which allow you to buy back excess energy from the grid for a higher rate than you pay for the actual electricity. Depending on your area, you may be eligible for a federal rebate. For example, the Federal Investment Tax Credit is available through 2022, which will allow you to reduce the cost of your solar power installation by up to 30%. Moreover, in 2022 or 2023, the federal tax credit for solar power projects will be extended, which will further decrease the price of a hybrid system. Read Also: Is Energy A Good Career Path? – A Detailed Guide Best Paying Jobs In Energy Everything You Need To Know About Mobile Solar Generators

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