Small-Sized Solar Systems

Location

• People most often use small solar electric systems for home and small-sized offices. They're also appropriate for RVs and cabins. These systems work best in places with clear, unblocked sunlight throughout most of the year.

How They Work

• The PV system absorbs the sun's power via solar cells. The cells make up the solar module, or panel. Several panels arranged together are called an array. When the cell, which is composed of semiconductor material, absorbs the sun's energy, the energy frees electrons from their atoms. The electrons then travel to a circuit built into the solar panel and become an electric current. This whole process is called the "photoelectric effect."

Cost

• When considering the cost of a new small-sized solar system, you should consider both your energy consumption and the total cost of installing the system. Look at your utility bills over the past year to see your energy consumption patterns, such as using more electricity on weekends or during specific times of the year. Identify ways in which you could lower your energy consumption. Then ask the person installing your system how much energy your new system will produce, measured in kilowatt-hours. Compare this number to your yearly electricity "demand" and you should have an idea of how much money you would save with a PV system.

Permits and Guidelines

• Though requirements and rules for installing a PV system vary from one local, county or state government to the next, they're all pretty much based on Article 690 of the National Electrical Code. This article of the NEC outlines how to build a safe and effective PV system. Nearly all jurisdictions require a permit or permits to install a PV system for a building. Your system installer may take care of this for you as a part of their services, so be sure to ask them about it on initial contact.