Solar Panel Projects
Solar Panel Power Output – Wattage of a Solar Panel
Author: Anton
Most simple series connected solar panels are rated into three categories :
* 15 to 16 volts – 30 to 32 cells per panel
* 16.5 to 17 volts – 33 to 34 cells per panel
* 17.5 to 21 volts – 35 to 36 cells per panel
15 to 16 volt panels are referred to as self-regulating panels because they do not produce enough voltage to overcharge batteries, which results in gassing. For this reason they do not require a charge regulator as the other panels do. This reduces the cost and maintenance of a system. These are referred to as battery maintainers, and are excellent to use in small system with one battery if the system does not have much of a power drain. Electric fences, and other low power applications that have limited energy use can use these types of solar panels.
16.5 to 17 volt panels are adequate for full fledged power systems in locations that generally get a lot of sun year round.
The preferred panel for most solar charging applications is a 35 to 36 cell panel which delivers from 17.5 to 21 volts open circuit voltage. A 36 cell panel is recommended for very hot climates in order to offset power output loss from high temperature. They also compensate for voltage drop in systems with long wire runs.
Designer watts
Designer wattage is simply the open circuit voltage multiplied by the short circuit current. Panel designers use this figure to rate the components used in the panel and peripheral components.
If a panel delivers about 20 volts open circuit and 3.5 amps short circuit current, the designer wattage would be 70 watts. The system components must be able to handle 70 watts, at 3.5 amps and 20 volts.
A panel rated at 70 designer watts will probably give you about 54 watts in real use and it will vary depending on the efficiencies of the cells as well as other conditions.
More about Green Energy and Solar Panels can be found at http://solar-panels-info.blogspot.com.
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/diy-articles/solar-panel-power-output-wattage-of-a-solar-panel-1268546.html
About the Author
November 30, -0001
12:00 am #comment-1
You realize, don’t you, that even if 100% perfectly efficient solar cells were invented, and we covered the entire USA with them, they would not generate anywhere near enough energy to supply our energy needs?
November 30, -0001
12:00 am #comment-2
Try some of these sites
http://www.howstuffworks.com/ to learn about solar
http://www.harborfreight.com/
Harbor freight has the least expensive solar panels I’ve seen and there is one in your area
November 30, -0001
12:00 am #comment-3
The simplest solar panel is for hot water. You can make one from common everyday items like black tubing, glass, aluminum foil and cardboard or wood. Below are some ideas that might help.
November 30, -0001
12:00 am #comment-4
Try buying a simple do it yourself kit with all the instructions – it will save you a lot of time
July 22, 2006
8:40 am #comment-5
Where can I find information and parts for a small solar panel project to run air conditioning for my garage?
I live in Corpus Christi, Texas and would like a local supplier if possible.
February 7, 2009
10:54 pm #comment-6
How to build a small SOLAR PANEL that will light a 60 watt light bulb?
Hi. I need to build a solar panel for a project. it should be able to light a 60 watt light bulb. also, it should be about 3×3 ft if it is 50% efficient. if anyone knows any websites or can help me, please answer! thanks.
July 23, 2009
4:26 am #comment-7
What items can I use to make a simple solar panel project?
.
I really need to know.
Please and Thank you
November 13, 2009
8:51 am #comment-8
How much secondary voltage will I have from my solar panel?
Im making a solar panel for a project and Its output voltage will be around 16 volts at 1.05 A.
I charge my batteries at 13.4 volts, WHAT IS THE FINAL AMPERAGE???
Does anyone know a formula I can use??
Thanks a lot!!
June 7, 2010
7:29 pm #comment-9
Who killed the solar panel projects? Shouldn’t we be gettin cheap solar panels by now?
I realize cons might consider this socialist but our dependence on expensive energy is just too much
September 2, 2010
10:50 pm #comment-10
I’m really appreciating reading about your experiences with the different technologies.
Thanks.