Because of the increasing use of photovoltaic solar panels, the dependency of mankind to fossil fuels like coal, oil and gas has been reduced. This is a good thing because it means that the non-renewable natural resources can be preserved better.

The studies and researches about photovoltaic solar panel caused its price to drop. The complex process has been simplified and the materials used are altered and improved. According to statistical data, between the 1980s until the 1990s, solar energy panels can cost about $8 up to $10 per watt. Today, the price is only about $3 to $9 per watt.

The introduction of the D.I.Y. or do-it yourself kits for photovoltaic solar panels has also made solar energy more accessible to ordinary people. Homeowners can already try and set up their own system. This usually costs much less too.

Understanding Different Systems for Photovoltaic Solar Panels

The solar energy systems can be interconnected to their existing electrical line. It is called an in-line solar power generator. Others prefer the stand alone system which is completely independent from the traditional electric source. Whether it is an in-line or stand alone system, it will provide an alternative electricity that could suffice for the daily need.

With proper understanding of various solar electricity systems, the process of choosing the one that you matches your needs becomes easier. Here are the different types that you should choose from:

• Stand-Alone Photovoltaic Solar Panels System: Typically, this type of system is found in simple gadgets which do not have a complex mechanism. Examples include calculators, watches and small toys. Yet, this can be effective in powering up house lights too. The good thing about this type is that it does not use any of the electricity provided by the main power source. All it has is a battery that stores sufficient energy so that it can still generate electricity even without sunlight.

One thing that you have to understand is that it produces direct current or DC as opposed to alternating current or AC. Because of that, you might need to use an inverter so that the lights in your home can be powered up efficiently.

• Grid-Connected Photovoltaic Solar Panels Systems: This is the usual option for homes that rely on the power of the sun to provide electricity for the entire household. It is interconnected to the traditional electrical source. Some use it as the only source of electricity during the day but end up using the traditional power source at night.

It is easier to deal with the fact that photovoltaic solar panels produce direct current when this type of system is used. Because of the electric generating system that traditional power source use, the electricity from the solar panels is converted.

Just remember that you have to clearly define first how much energy you want to derive from your photovoltaic solar panels. The more dependent you are with the alternative energy system, the more complex it becomes. Do your computation because this will help a lot in determining the system that you want to have in your home or other establishments.