What are the most efficient solar panels on the market?

For those looking for the most efficient solar panels for their PV system, the first thing you need to know is how to compare efficiency metrics for different manufacturer brands.   In practical terms, for two solar panels of the same physical size, if one has a 21% efficiency rating and the other has a 14% efficiency rating, the 21% efficient panel will produce 50% more kilowatt hours (kWh) of electricity under the same conditions as the 14% efficient panel.

https://news.energysage.com/what-are-the-most-efficient-solar-panels-on-the-market/

How to Build a Solar Panel

by hastyhost in solar

Currently I'm a college student studying computer engineering, and this summer while I was on break I decided I wanted to learn more about solar energy and how to build a solar panel from scratch. My main reason for looking to build it myself was to learn how it all worked, and the next reason was due to the price of a commercially built solar panel.  

So, you'll learn how to build a 63 watt solar system in this instructable with free videos to help you get started. I know I'm a visual learner, so hopefully most find this very helpful.

http://www.instructables.com/id/How-To-Build-A-Solar-Panel/

SOLAR EDUCATION FOR KIDS AND TEENS

Bill Nye the Science Guy compares renewable and non-renewable energy sources and explains the importance of clean power. 

How energy from the sun in the form of photons is soaked up by solar panels and transformed into clean electricity

‘From sand to solar’ – how leading panel manufacturer REC makes its solar modules

It would take far less than 1% of the Earth’s land area covered in solar panels to supply all of the world’s electricity needs.

A solar panel can work for decades. Some installed in the 1970’s are still generating electricity .

Wind is a form of solar power, created by the uneven heating of the Earth’s surface.

https://www.energymatters.com.au/education/solar-kids-teens/

What is Solar Energy and How Do Solar Panels Work?

By: Martin DeBono   October 25th, 2017

Our sun is a natural nuclear reactor. It releases tiny packets of energy called photons, which travel the 93 million miles from the sun to Earth in about 8.5 minutes. Every hour, enough photons impact our planet to generate enough solar energy to theoretically satisfy global energy needs for an entire year.

https://us.sunpower.com/blog/2017/10/25/how-does-solar-energy-work/

Solar energy works by capturing the sun’s energy and turning it into electricity for your home or business.

Scientists Channel Tesla & Einstein To Invent New Double-Glazed Solar Panel

December 9th, 2017 by Steve Hanley 

Dr. Gavin Bell and Dr. Yorck Ramachers are researchers in the physics department at the University of Warwick in Coventry, England. They recognized that conventional photovoltaic solar panel technology has reached a practical limit when it comes to improving efficiency and lowering manufacturing costs. 

So, the pair went back to the research and writings of Nikola Tesla and Albert Einstein to see if the work those pioneers did could point the way to a better panel design. At present, a solar panel relies on a vacuum between the outer surface and the solar cells inside. What if, Bell and Ramachers asked themselves, they used a gas like argon to fill that space? 

https://cleantechnica.com/2017/12/09/scientists-channel-tesla-einstein-invent-new-double-glazed-solar-panel/

ComEd announces recipients of solar pipeline training program grants

By Kelsey Misbrener | December 7, 2017

Today, on the one-year anniversary the Future Energy Jobs Act (FEJA), ComEd announced four organizations have been selected to develop and conduct solar pipeline training programs made possible through grants funded by FEJA. Elevate Energy, Illinois Central College, OAI and the Safer Foundation, will receive a total of $3 million as a part of the first wave of FEJA funding to train individuals to work in the solar industry.

“ComEd is committed to helping grow renewable energy in Illinois and equally dedicated to developing the workforce of the future who will help integrate more clean energy like solar, into the Illinois energy grid,” said Anne Pramaggiore, ComEd president and CEO.

CEO.https://www.solarpowerworldonline.com/2017/12/comed-solar-job-training-grants/

Solar Powered Smart Palm Trees

Solar Powered Palm Tree Stations have started providing beaches with free wireless internet, charge phones and make announcements.  These Solar Powered Palm Tree Stations can also display updates on events and activities and serve as a public announcement system.   They also show beach rules, guidelines, tips, and sea conditions.

https://wordlesstech.com/solar-powered-smart-palm-trees/

Each Smart Palm runs entirely on its own solar power source
and lights up at night for an aesthetic look.