Types of Solar Energy and Their Uses
With a chilly winter just ahead, we can expect to see power bills rising as we start turning up the heat. Unfortunately, relying on electricity to stay warm can be incredibly expensive, and with the cost of power rising steadily year by year, it may soon no longer be affordable for many of us to continue this way. However, your power bills could very well become non-existent just by installing solar panels in your home. Today, we discuss the benefits of solar energy and explain the different types of solar energy available, so you can make the switch and start saving money.
Why Should I Install a Solar Panel?
The sun is a readily available resource that can be collected and turned into energy, and the best part of all is that it’s free! Power generated by solar panels not only has the immediate effect of reducing your power bill, but it will also exempt you from any rising power costs and fuel price volatility in the future. Therefore, a one-time payment for a solar power package in NZ can go towards saving you a considerable amount of money in the long term. Your self-sustainable property would also be much more desirable to potential buyers should you ever decide to sell it.
In addition to being cost-effective, solar panel generated energy is clean and renewable, unlike those produced by fossil fuels which would emit harmful carbon dioxide fumes. Do your part for the environment and stop climate change by reducing your carbon footprint.
Different Types of Solar Energy
There are two types of solar energy that can be collected and used as electricity or heat, with the main difference being the type of solar panel used in each case. In most households, both solar panels are installed in tandem.
Solar Photovoltaic
A panel made from solar photovoltaic cells and other specific materials allow for the release of electrons and the production of electricity when it is exposed to light. The direct current produced by this reaction is then run through a solar inverter, converting it to an alternate current so it can be used to power your home. Any excess electricity can be stored in an external solar battery for later use or sold back to the grid, meaning that in addition to getting free electricity, you’ll be earning a profit as well. The buyback rates differ depending on the power supplier though, so be sure to do your research before settling on one.
Solar Thermal
Solar thermal panels convert energy to heat fluids, usually for water heating indoors or in your pool. This generated energy can usually be stored and used when the temperature falls below a certain value, ensuring that you have hot water all year round. Solar thermal panels are also much more efficient than photovoltaic panels at generating the same amount of energy, requiring less of them to be installed at a cheaper price.
Ready to Start Generating Your Own Power?
As New Zealand’s leading energy solutions company, the team at Aeon Energy are passionate about providing you with the ideal solution for your power needs. Ready to make the change with the best solar panels in NZ to save costs and start generating your own power? We can help you get started with a free quote and a no-obligation home assessment today.