Solar Panels
Function: Capture sunlight and convert it into direct current (DC) electricity. Photovoltaic (PV) cells within the panels absorb photons from sunlight, initiating an electrical current. Most solar panels are made of silicon cells, which are highly efficient at converting sunlight into electricity.
Types: Monocrystalline Solar Panels, Polycrystalline Solar Panels, Thin-Film Solar Panels, Bifacial Solar Panels, Passivated Emitter and Rear Cell (PERC) Panels, Concentrated PV Cell (CVP and HCVP) Panels.
Charge Controller
Function: The charge controller regulates the voltage and current coming from the solar panels to the battery. It ensures that the batteries are charged efficiently and safely, preventing overcharging.
Types: There are mainly two types of charge controllers: Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) and Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT). MPPT controllers are more efficient as they adjust the electrical input to harvest the maximum power from the solar panels.
Battery Storage
Function: Stores the DC electricity generated by the solar panels for later use. This stored energy can be used during periods of low sunlight or at night.
Types: Common types of batteries used in solar generators include lead-acid batteries and lithium-ion batteries. Lithium-ion batteries are preferred for their higher efficiency, longer lifespan, and lighter weight.
Inverter
Function: Converts the stored DC electricity in the battery into alternating current (AC) electricity, which is the standard power used by most household appliances.
Types: There are three main types of inverters: pure sine wave, modified sine wave, and square wave inverters. Pure sine wave inverters are the most efficient and compatible with all types of appliances, though they are more expensive.