Solar Panels work on the phenomenon called the Photoelectric Effect to produce electricity. Solar Panels are nothing but blocks of specially designed semiconducting material which produce a small amount of electricity when light falls on them. This small amount of electricity is produced in a large number of solar panels (Solar Arrays) to produce electricity for everyday consumption.

Solar PV System is a static system i.e. it does not consists of any rotating or moving parts. So it is not prone to any kind of damage caused due to the friction between the moving parts or any other mechanical phenomenon that causes damage to a generator or a motor. A Solar PV System can easily last from 20 to 25 years and can even work for a longer period if maintained properly.

Though the capital cost of a PV System is higher than a DG System, a DG System accounts for a high fuel cost and maintenance cost. While a PV System doesn’t require any fuel and its maintenance is very minimal and easy. Apart from this a Solar PV System is clean and environmental friendly option for a backup system.

A Solar PV System requires very minimal maintenance from the owner and is very easy to maintain. Regular cleaning of the Solar Arrays should be ensured so that the system works at its full efficiency and occasional checks should be done to ensure that there is no shading over the Solar Array because of any obstruction. The components of the system except the Solar Arrays have to be kept in a shaded area. These small steps can result in a healthier and longer life span of your Solar PV System.

Yes, it is true that the only electricity producing unit in the system are the Solar Arrays and having other components adds to the cost of the system. But the electricity produced by the Arrays is in D.C. form and have to be converted into A.C. form to be able to be used by the consumer. Also a proper and safe flow of the electricity needs to be ensured so that no damage is done to the appliances used or the consumer using it. This is why additional components are added to the system to ensure better reliability of the system.

A Solar PV System doesn’t require direct sunlight to be able to work, though direct sunlight gives the maximum efficiency. The system continues to work even during the overcast conditions but the efficiencies are going to be reduced to some extent. The efficiency generally reduces to the 70% during an overcast day. But in a place like India which receives more than 300 sunny days per year overcast conditions is not a major concern.