PV Gap

Jason Said:

how power is produced by solar panels? What is the cost of a solar panel? Can I really save enough money?

We Answered:

Solar panels convert light energy into electricity via electro-chemical means.

Getting solar panels installed typically costs between $7,000 and $12,000 per kW of capacity. How much money you can save will depend on where you live and how much to pay for electricity.

There is a calculator called PV Watts that can give you a real good estimate of how much you would save on electricity bills here:
http://rredc.nrel.gov/solar/codes_algs/P…
just pick the location closest to you (it may not be in the same state) and enter the size of system you want to install (or try a few different ones) and if you put in your $/kWh (from your electric bill) it will even give you the answer in dollars.

If you are in New Jersey or California, there also are some great incentive programs to help lower the installation costs.

Calling a local PV installer is also a good way to get more locally specific info.

Misty Said:

can solar panels take in too much sun !?

We Answered:

Yes, the solar panel can be damaged, depending on what kind it is. If it's a water heater solar panel and the water is removed for example, the materials can get quite hot, certainly hot enough to melt solder joining copper pipes together. If the water isn't circulated through the panel, thus cooling it, the water can reach 212 F and above. So, in addition to higher heat, high pressures can be realized. Some solar panels have a pressure relief valve.