An
array of solar cells positioned atop your house can help reduce your
energy bills. However, these solar cells must be properly installed
and oriented to follow the sun's track across the sky. Clear weather
permitting, solar cells have the potential to pump much electric
energy into your home or building. However, an extensive array of
photovoltaic
(PV) cells can
be tricky, as far as the amount of power you need is concerned;
therefore you will need to compute the amperage.
First, study the
documentation in your solar power system for the panel's maximum
rated power in watts and the maximum voltage or Vmp. Divide the
maximum wattage against the Vmp to get the total number of amps
produced when the panel's at maximum capacity.
You will have to hook up
the panel to a digital multimeter set to direct current voltage, and
list down the voltage readout. Turn the multimeter to
resistance-measurement mode, and list down the number of ohms. Divide
the voltage against the number of ohms to get the actual number of
amps produced by the panel at normal capacity.
The number of amps
generated by each panel will give you clues as to how much power your
appliances actually need. This can help you and your contractor
figure out how many solar cells are needed in case you're interested
in a full array.
