In solar power systems, solar panels are responsible for converting sunlight to electricity. Solar panels are an ingenious invention that give average homeowners the opportunity to produce their own power, cutting their electricity bills and decreasing their carbon footprint.

Solar panels can be made by wiring together solar cells, which are then housed within a weatherproof case. When they are struck by sunlight, the solar cells release a small electrical current. The electrical current generated by one solar cell isn't that significant, but when a large enough number of them are combined, the output can be great. Solar panels are usually equipped with redundant cells, so that even if a small number of cells malfunction, the panel itself can keep working without any disruption.

The latest solar cells are more efficient and durable than ever before. Modern solar cells need less sunlight to produce the same or even greater amounts of power. Electricity is produced only when sunlight exposure exceeds a certain threshold, which differs from cell to cell. The threshold for the latest cells is lower than ever before, meaning that these solar cells generate power even in low sunlight or overcast conditions.

Now, it's possible to produce enough energy for your home with fewer solar panels than ever before. This results in reduced installation costs and reduced requirements with regard to roof space. These improvements have moved solar power to the point that it is now a realistic and attractive option for many homeowners.

Built-in micro-inverters have been added to recent solar panel designs. Previously, just one large inverter would be placed near the home's electrical panel. Direct Current (DC) electricity generated by the solar panels would be sent to this single inverter, which then converted it to Alternating Current (AC) electricity, the kind which is used in the home.

The long wires that connected the solar panels to the inverter were usually unable to prevent some loss of the power generated. This problem is addressed by the use of micro-inverters.

These additions give solar panels the ability to independently supply electricity directly to the home. The elimination of the large inverter makes the entire wiring process much easier, as well. Thanks to this, it's now possible to build up a solar power system gradually, adding panels as necessary, instead of doing it as a single, overwhelming procedure. If you would like more information about micro inverters, feel free to visit Solar Micro Inverter.

Advanced solar power panels are a good option for anyone who is thinking about installing a solar power generation system. The bottom line is that these panels will provide more energy at a lower cost, allowing users to enjoy the free power of the sun for longer than ever before. If you want to build your own solar panel, take a look at Build Your Own Solar Panel.

For another guide to building your own solar panel, go to Green DIY Energy.