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Home: Solar Energy: Rooftop Solar Is Now Peel-and-Stick Available
Rooftop Solar Is Now Peel-and-Stick AvailableThin film solar panels are less susceptible to power loss resulting from obstructing dirt and debris than traditional silicon photovoltaic solar panels. They can produce more electricity on cloudy days, they're less expensive to mount, and they're durable. * Thin film panels are made by laminating three extremely thin photovoltaic coatings onto a flexible, lightweight backing to form a cell with three active semiconductor layers. Each layer of 'film' is tuned to a different range of light, which allows the panel to react better to low or indirect light. On cloudy days, at dusk and dawn, or when obstructions occur, thin film panels can produce more electricity than panels that require direct sunlight. Each layer in a triple-junction cell captures one portion of the solar spectrum while the remaining light penetrates to the other layers, resulting in higher efficiency than a conventional system. Thin Film Versus Traditional* While a traditional panel would have a heavy glass front, the front of a thin film panel will be made of encapsulating materials such as the high performance DuPont™ Melinex® ST polyester films, and the back will probably be made of polyvinyl fluoride or fiberglass-reinforced plastic. These materials cut the weight of the panel and improve its durability. The best materials will also improve clarity. o Traditional PanelsMonocrystalline photovoltaic panels may have a higher efficiency rating; but the higher efficiency occurs only when the panel is pointed directly at the sun. If a traditional solar panel is shaded, you'll see a more substantial power loss. Traditional panels are also more suceptible to heat, so they require mounting racks to let air circulate under them to help with cooling. This means drilling holes in the roof. o Thin Film AdvantagesThin film panels are not as efficient in inch-by-inch measurements, but they will often produce more usable power over the long term, especially in low light situations. Thin Film panels will take up more linear roof space than a glass-fronted panel, but don't require mounting racks so the materials and labor are less than an equivalent traditional system. If a thin film panel is shaded, there will usually be a less dramatic power reduction. Peel & Stick Installation* Triple-junction laminate panel technology (thin film) is a highly adaptable and flexible alternative. Some thin film panels roll out like a carpet. Others are shaped and sized like plywood sheets or carpet squares. Some are made to look like traditional roof shingles. * Although the peel and stick options do not require that holes be drilled in the roof, installation should still be handled by people trained to work safely with electrical and roofing procedures, and who understand the local electrical codes. Installation should not be approached with a careless attitude. o The roof has to be clean, dry and have no water pooling issues. It must be made of durable, fire-rated materials that meet local codes. It cannot have an overly-steep slope. Proper clearances should be maintained around the panels and other electrical equipment. In addition, the solar panels or rolls should only be adhered to the roof when the weather is suitable; otherwise the adhesives may not properly grip. The panels should not be allowed to twist or flex while they are being moved and installed. In short, just like traditional panels, peel-and-stick thin film panels should only be installed by properly trained professionals. Solar Articles
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