You might not realize it, solar power isn’t new technology. It’s been around since the 1830s, when a French physicist named Edmond Becquerel first observed the photovoltaic effect occurring when certain materials were exposed to light. Then, in the 1880s, American inventor Charles Fritts created the first true solar cell by coating selenium with a thin layer of gold. It wasn’t until 70 years later that a major advancement was made in solar tech.
But things have come a long way since Mr. Becquerel first experimented with solar power. Technology is moving quickly and new advancements in roof-mounted solar panels are changing the way that commercial buildings are harnessing the sun’s power. Here’s what you need to know to keep up.
High-Efficiency Solar Panels
The first solar cell was about 1% efficient, while today’s high-efficiency photovoltaic (PV) solar panels sometimes exceed 24%. This allows each panel in a system to convert more of the sun’s energy into electrical current than a standard PV panel. With commercial buildings using so much energy to operate building comfort machinery, computers, and other systems within the building, getting as much energy from every square foot of your solar panel system matters.
One of the reasons why solar panels have become so much more efficient is the invention of PERC, or Passivated Emitter and Rear Cell technology. First developed during the 1980s, this technology included a layer on the rear of the cell, and this layer reflects unused sunlight back into the cell to ensure more light is absorbed.
Other boosts in efficiency come from multi-junction cells, which catch multiple wavelengths of light, monocrystalline silicon which improves electron mobility, and anti-reflective coating.
Inverter Improvements
Inverters convert DC power created by the sun to the AC power the homes and buildings use. Inverter technology has improved drastically over the past few years, allowing solar panel systems to run more efficiently and integrate better with other systems. This includes all types of inverters, including string inverters, microinverters, and power optimizers.
Modern inverters have many benefits over standard models. They can generate more power, maximize output in times of shade or when panels are mismatched, and even facilitate the safe integration of other systems like generators or wind turbines. They also simplify the energy storage process, easily integrating with battery systems, allowing commercial buildings to store excess energy produced by rooftop systems.
Monitoring and Smart Solar
Commercial buildings are also seeing the benefits of advanced monitoring systems (again, thanks to modern inverters). Property owners and management can easily monitor their systems’ outputs and quickly be alerted to potential issues. If one panel starts to underperform, they can call for service before the energy loss accumulates.
Also, smart tech takes management and optimization to the next level. Internet of Things (IoT) tech integrated into solar panel systems allows users to control their panels remotely. Energy Management Systems (EMS) also optimize the use of generated solar power and help coordinate with storage and grid integration. These features help commercial buildings make the most of their systems and realize the return on their investment.
Quantum Dot Technology
Quantum dot solar panels are one of the most exciting new technologies on the market. These panels feature nanoscale semiconductor particles (the quantum dots themselves) that absorb and convert sunlight into electricity. They can be tuned to absorb a wider spectrum of light than a standard panel, allowing the panels to be more efficient and improving the system’s overall performance.
Quantum dot solar panels:
- Are lightweight and flexible, making them easier to install and maintain.
- Perform better in low-light conditions, providing more reliable energy generation.
- Are available in semi-transparent panels and Building Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV).
- Can be layered on top of traditional silicon cells to improve efficiency.
Perovskite Solar Cells
In another huge leap from the original technology from the 1800s, Perovskite solar cells improve efficiency and could potentially lower the cost of manufacturing. These panels feature crystal structures that are extremely efficient in turning sunlight into electricity.
Some perovskite cells are up to 25% efficient, a major improvement over other high-efficiency panels which range from 19 to 24%. Also, since these panels consist of abundant raw materials, they’re relatively inexpensive to produce. Perovskite panes are also easy to manufacture, some of which can even be printed.
It’s important to note that perovskite panels do have some drawbacks. Long-term stability is somewhat still in question, and they do consist of some toxic materials like lead. However, they’re a major advancement in efficiency and could be one of the most popular solar panel options in the near future.
Start Your Solar Project Off Right With Nations Roof
Despite the advancements in solar panels in recent years, it’s still as important as ever to have a durable, reliable roofing surface underneath. At Nations Roof, we install a variety of solar-compatible roofing materials to help ensure you get the most from your roof-mounted solar panels while still protecting the building for years to come. Call today to learn more about our durable commercial roofing options.
