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Solar 101

Here’s everything you need to know about solar energy

How Does Solar Energy Work?

Solar energy is a renewable energy source that harnesses the power of the sun to generate electricity. Solar panels, made up of photovoltaic (PV) cells, absorb sunlight and convert it into direct current (DC) electricity. This electricity is then converted into alternating current (AC) electricity by an inverter and can be used to power homes and businesses.

Excess Light
The amount of light hitting the Earth in one hour exceeds the entire Earth's need annually.
Solar Panels
Solar panels absorb the sunlight (photons) and convert them to electricity (power).
Clean Energy
The clean power generated is transmitted into the electrical grid to homes and businesses.
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What Are The Benefits of Solar Energy?

Solar energy provides several benefits that make it an attractive alternative to traditional fossil fuels. One of the most significant benefits is that solar energy is renewable, meaning it can regenerate faster than it is used. In addition, solar energy does not produce greenhouse gas emissions or air pollutants, which is better for the environment. Generating their own electricity through solar panels can help individuals and businesses reduce their reliance on traditional power grids. Solar panels can also increase property value and create new job opportunities in manufacturing, installation, and development.

Learn More

Read more about energy storage systems, how solar projects impact soil health, the decommission process, and construction with the links below!

Frequently Asked Questions

The materials used in the panels pose no danger to the site or its surroundings. In addition, Qcells only uses in panels that are environmentally friendly and meet all industry safety standards. 

Data from across the United States show solar farm’s often have no measurable impact on property value’s and in some cases have positive effects. 

Solar projects are essentially silent. Inverters may produce an ambient hum that is not normally audible from outside the project fence. 

There is no odor, liquid, or gases used in the panels and the minute amounts of heavy metals used in some panels cannot mix with water or vaporize into the air. Even if a module were to break, there is little to no risk of chemicals releasing into the environment. 

After the construction process, solar projects do not attract significant traffic and require infrequent maintenance a few times a year. 

Solar appear similar to a single-story residence. Usually no more 10 feet high, solar farms are often enclosed by fencing and/or landscaping to minimize visual impacts. 

Land that is being taxed as agriculture exempt will lose this exemption and be applied a penalty paid by Qcells. The zoning designation of host properties or neighboring properties will not change. 

Solar and agriculture are not mutually exclusive and co-location can bring net positive benefits for farmers, in the form of additional income and soil recovery, while keeping farmers on the land and the land in the family. 

During construction, a solar project can generate over a hundred jobs, many being local to the project site. The project also can provide substantial increases in local tax revenue. Qcells also works with local leaders to establish a community benefits program. 

At the end of the project’s life, the project components are removed and the land is restored to its original use. 

Learn More About The Solar Energy Life Cycle!