Electric generator VS Solar panel

Failures in the supply of commercial electrical energy are not uncommon. Many times they pose great problems for us to develop our domestic and work life normally, since we depend on numerous appliances in our daily lives.

Therefore, to provide an effective and efficient solution to this problem, the market offers multiple solutions that vary in terms of their operation, the needs they satisfy, or even their price.

In the following blog we are going to explore two of these options offered by the market: the solar panel and the electric generator. We are going to ask ourselves about its operation, its characteristics, the use it offers us, and, of course, its advantages and disadvantages.

Table of Contents

In the same way, here you can solve your doubts about the operation of an electric generator, or what are its parts, or how to install it. Do not forget that our staff is always at your disposal to address your concerns and provide you with specialized advice.

Types of electric generators and uses

Solar panel

A photovoltaic plate, or better known as a solar panel, is a device made up of several solar or voltaic cells that are responsible for generating electricity from the use of photovoltaic solar energy.

These voltaic cells are made of silicon and covered with a special type of polyethylene, which makes them an ideal semiconductor material to efficiently carry out the photovoltaic effect. There is a wide variety of solar panels on the market designed to meet different needs.

What is the photovoltaic effect and how does it occur?

Obtaining electrical energy from the use of solar energy is called the photovoltaic effect.

This takes place when the photons of light -which are the particles capable of electromagnetic influence- come into contact with two surfaces of different material -such as photovoltaic cells- and alter their electrons, making them move from the nucleus of the atom in which they were and transporting them through the material.

There, in this alteration of electrons, electricity is generated.

Advantages and disadvantages of solar panels

Being one of the many energy alternatives, solar panels offer unique advantages that, knowing how to take advantage of, guarantee a satisfactory energy supply; and yet it suffers from certain drawbacks that should be considered.

Main advantages

  1. The most obvious and recognized advantage by all: it is clean energy. This type of energy takes advantage of a renewable resource such as the sun and, except for its production, does not generate pollution.
  2. In addition to the initial investment, they do not represent an exaggerated expenditure of money.
  3. They are easy to install. Practically almost anywhere where the sunlight reaches one can be installed.
  4. Their operation is completely silent, which makes them a fairly comfortable option.
  5. They have a considerably long shelf life.

Main disadvantages

  1. Despite great efforts to make it more efficient, the electrical energy offered by a solar panel is considerably low: only about a 25% is used.
  2. By relying directly on sunlight, it makes the electrical power supply unpleasantly inconstant; for example, at night or in cloudy weather or particularly polluted air, its efficiency is compromised.
  3. If a high supply of electrical energy is required, it is necessary to have a large enough space without shade to install the required solar panels.
  4. It is necessary to have an inverter, since solar panels generate direct current, and the one that is usually used in domestic, commercial and industrial networks is alternating current.

As is evident, a solar panel has pros and cons. The need to be met will, after all, be the determining factor that will prevail when making a decision on energy alternatives. On the other hand, let's see what an electric generator is, how it works and what advantages and disadvantages it has.

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electric generator vs solar panel
electric generator motor JRH Power Generator
VP-29E Generator JRH Power Generator

Electric generator

An electric generator is a machine that is responsible for transforming rotational kinetic energy (a type of mechanical energy) into usable electrical energy in the form of alternating current.

It is a highly reliable device that facilitates the supply of electricity in unfavorable situations: when the usual supply is interrupted for some reason, for example; or also, when the place where electric current is needed is very far from the main source.

It takes advantage of the phenomenon of electromagnetic induction to fulfill its purpose, and its operation is relatively simple.

What is Faraday's law and how is it used?

Faraday's law, which explains the phenomenon of electromagnetic induction and the way in which the electromotive force occurs, explains that it occurs when an electromagnetic field rotates, causing the electrons to move and pass through the constituent elements of the system.

In practice, electromagnetic induction is harnessed by turning a rotor using the mechanical force of a motor shaft. As this rotor is inserted in a fixed stator (which is in turn made up of conductive coils), an electromagnetic field is generated that rotates.

Thus, what we know occurs: electrons move, an electromotive force is produced which, for explanatory purposes, can be understood as voltage, since it is also measured in volts. See More

Advantages and disadvantages of electric generators

It also has advantages and disadvantages to consider. However, we must not forget that the use or destination that we are going to give to the electric generator is a factor that relativizes the degree of advantages and disadvantages that it can entail.

Main advantages

  1. The great advantage of an electric generator, especially those static generators like our models, is the power of the current it offers. Up to 60kw!
  2. Another great advantage is the constancy and stability of the energy supply. Well, without problems, it offers us a reliable current for up to 12 consecutive hours.
  3. They have a fairly long shelf life under favorable conditions.
  4. The current it offers is alternating current, so you do not need an inverter.
  5. There are a wide variety of options on the market, so there will always be one that best suits your needs and pocket.
  6. It allows to carry electrical energy to remote places.

Main disadvantages

  1. For its cost, it is not accessible to everyone who needs it.
  2. Its installation is not as simple as that of the solar panel.
  3. Its operation is a bit noisy, although this can be alleviated by means of a silencing system.
  4. Of course, unlike a solar panel, it requires a fuel.
  5. Requires a maintenance more regular.

These are the main advantages and disadvantages of electric generators. You can consult our catalog to know the technical specifications of our models. Of course, if you want to know more, we invite you to contact us. An advisor can guide you professionally to find the right Electric generator what do you need.

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