What is the efficiency and cost of a general photovoltaic(PV) solar cell for small scale solar power generation and use?

The idea is to use the solar energy that is normally wasted around the house. 

In short, PV solar at the single house level CAN be cost effective, but there are many factors to determine this, including:
1. Amount of sunlight in your area
2. Cost of utility-supplied electricity in your area
3. Amount of electricity your house uses
4. Whether energy-conserving actions have been implemented, e.g., switching to fluorescent lights, more efficient appliances, improving insulation, etc.
5. Cost of PV solar equipment in your area.
The return on investment will generally be higher and faster if you go with a larger system rather than a smaller one, as cost per watt drops as you scale up. This applies for all types of renewable energy sources.

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One Response to “5 factors driving the efficiency of solar energy”

1. Peter says:

   March 25, 2011 at 10:49 am

   Also the use of solar tracker can improve solar panel efficiency about 5%.