Climate change is one of the most pressing challenges humanity is facing today as its severity continues to increase. However, as human activities, particularly those related to industrialisation and deforestation, accelerate the release of greenhouse gases, this problem will only exacerbate further.
1.1. The Severity of Climate Change
Greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide, are the primary drivers of climate change. They are produced when fossil fuels are burned and trees are felled for the purpose of urbanisation. Without sufficient trees to absorb carbon dioxide from the environment during photosynthesis, the amount of emissions will only accumulate and trap heat within our atmosphere, leading to the warming of the Earth’s surface. As a result, global temperatures will rise, disrupting weather patterns, and causing more frequent and severe hurricanes, floods, droughts, or heatwaves. Besides that, shifting temperatures can also cause biodiversity loss as habitats become inhabitable.
In order to combat climate change, one of the most feasible solutions humans can adopt is the use of clean energy.
1.2. Clean Energy Solutions
Fossil fuels, such as coal, oil, and natural gas, have long been the backbone of global energy needs. However, as they are finite resources, their continued use poses severe threats to the climate and the planet as a whole. Not only are fossil fuels non-renewable sources of energy, they also contribute greatly to the accumulation of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.
Sustainable sources of energy are solutions we can leverage to mitigate these detrimental effects. They offer an environmentally-friendly alternative that prevents the release of more greenhouse gases, as well as promotes energy independence and resilience.
In Singapore’s tropical climate, solar energy stands out as a promising clean energy source as we receive abundant sunlight all-year-round. It is a highly reliable option that will generate sufficient electricity without emitting harmful pollutants or greenhouse gases.
Want to find out more about how solar panels and solar power work? We share more below!
Solar PV Systems
2.1. The Electromagnetic Spectrum
Before we dive deeper into the inner workings of solar panels, you’ll need to first understand how the sun works.
The sun emits energy in the form of electromagnetic radiation that travels through space to reach the Earth. It spans a broad spectrum, including ultraviolet (UV), visible light, and infrared (IR) radiation, each differing in terms of their wavelengths and frequencies. While the entire solar spectrum reaches the Earth, solar panels only leverage the visible light spectrum to generate electricity. This is because these specific wavelengths ranging from approximately 400 nanometres to 700 nanometres carry the optimum energy levels required for effective photovoltaic conversion. UV radiation cannot be efficiently captured by solar panels, while IR radiation is usually converted into heat rather than electricity.
2.2. Photovoltaic (PV) Technology
As the visible light wavelengths hit the solar panels, they go through a process known as photovoltaic (PV) conversion, which taps on PV technology to convert sunlight into electricity. It utilises semiconducting materials, most commonly silicon, to absorb photons of light and facilitate the generation of an electric current. Here’s how it works:
- When sunlight containing photos strikes the surface of the semiconductor material in a solar panel, the photons transfer their energy to electrons within the material.
- The electrons absorb the energy, causing them to move from a lower energy state to a higher energy state, creating what is known as an electron-hole pair. In simpler terms, the energy excites electrons and forces them out of their usual positions, leaving behind a positively-charged hole.
- The energised electrons then move through the semiconductor material, creating an electric current within it. This process is known as the photovoltaic effect, and is the core principle behind the conversion of solar energy into electrical energy.
2.3. The Composition of Solar Panels
Source: Epa
Solar panel setups are complex systems designed to efficiently capture and convert sunlight into electricity. They comprise of many components, each with a specific function that play a crucial role in harnessing solar energy. The key components of a solar PV system include:
- Solar Cells (Photovoltaic Cells)
Also known as photovoltaic cells, solar cells are the fundamental building blocks of solar panels. They are the key parts primarily composed of semiconductor materials like silicon, and are responsible for converting sunlight into electricity. Solar cells are typically arranged in a grid-like pattern on a solar panel to allow for a collective and more substantial amount of electricity to be generated when exposed to sunlight.
Most solar cells have a p-n junction, where one side of the cell is positively charged (p-type) and the other is negatively charged (n-type). This junction is crucial for creating an electric field that facilitates the movement of electrons when they are energised by sunlight.
Additionally, metal contacts are placed on the top and bottom of the solar cell to capture the generated electricity. They provide an external path for the electric current to flow out of the solar cell and be used for various applications.
These solar cells are then encapsulated with a layer of tempered glass and Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA) to help ensure their longevity and durability.
- Backsheet
The backsheet in solar panels is a component that serves as a protective layer on the rear side of the solar module. It is typically made of a polymer material, often a combination of ethylene tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET). These materials are chosen for their electrical insulation properties and resistance to moisture, heat, and ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Apart from protecting the solar cells and internal parts from damage, the backsheet is also used to prevent any electrical conduction to the backside of the module, ensuring that the electrical current flows only through the intended path.
Learn More: Materials Used for Your Solar Panel System
- Frame and Frame Structure
Solar panels are held together by frames to ensure their structural integrity, durability, and ease of installation. The frame is typically constructed of aluminium due to its excellent combination of strength, lightweightness and resistance to corrosion. They are responsible for keeping these solar panels safe from external elements and they make it easier for brackets and support structures to be easily attached, allowing for secure placement on rooftops.
- Junction Box
The junction box is a critical component of a solar PV system, serving as a central point for electrical connections within the solar module. Its primary function is to manage and protect the electrical wiring and components associated with the collar cells, ensuring the efficient and safe flow of electricity generated by the solar panel.
- Connectors
Connectors are used to link individual solar panels, connecting them to achieve the desired voltage and current levels. They provide a secure and reliable means of joining the positive and negative terminals of adjacent panels, and are designed to enable installers to establish electrical connections efficiently.
- Bypass Diodes
When a solar cell is covered by shade, whether from objects such as trees, buildings, or other obstructions, they may lose effectiveness and cause a decrease in overall power output. If it malfunctions, it can also affect the performance of neighbouring cells in the same panel. Bypass diodes are components integrated into solar PV systems to mitigate this impact by providing alternative pathways for the electrical current to flow. In simpler terms, they help to redirect the current around the shaded or malfunctioning cell to maintain overall efficiency.
- Anti-Reflective Coating
Applied to the front glass of the solar panel, the anti-reflective coating plays a crucial role in maximising light absorption by minimising reflections. This significantly enhances the overall efficiency of the solar panel.
2.4. How Solar PV Systems Work as a Whole
Solar panels are strategically installed in locations with maximum exposure to direct sunlight. For most residential and commercial applications, they are usually placed on rooftops where there is least obstruction, and tilted and oriented in a way that captures the most sunlight efficiently throughout the day.
When sunlight hits the surface of the solar panels, it interacts with semiconductor materials within the solar cells. The energy from photons is absorbed by the semiconductor material, causing electrons to be knocked loose from their atoms. As mentioned above, this movement creates an electric current in a process known as the photovoltaic effect, contributing to a flow in electrical energy.
The generated current is in the form of direct current (DC), which is a flow of electric charge in one direction. Inverter devices in the solar PV system are used to convert this DC electricity into alternating current (AC), which is the standard form of electricity used in homes and on the electrical grid.
The produced electricity can be used to immediately power buildings, stored in energy storage systems for future usage, or be sold to the grid. Net-metering systems will measure the electricity consumed and any surplus can be sent back to the grid for rebates or credits.
2.5. Environmental Benefits of Solar Energy
The complicated functions of solar PV systems aside, how eco-friendly is solar energy and why is this source of power so valued by Singapore? We share more about the environmental benefits of solar energy below.
- Reduced Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Solar power is a source of energy that relies on the infinite amount of sunlight rather than on fossil fuels, which are finite resources and the primary cause of greenhouse gas emissions. By choosing to tap on the sun’s power to generate electrical energy, you lower the need for traditional power plants and the burning of fossil fuels to produce electricity. This eliminates the direct emissions associated with burning fossil fuels.
- Improved Air Quality
Solar energy offers a clean and sustainable energy alternative to traditional sources that produce air pollutants. Instead of generating electricity by burning fossil fuels, solar PV systems produce electrical energy without emitting harmful pollutants such as sulphur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter, which can cause respiratory problems and other health issues. This leads to cleaner air and a reduction in the associated health risks.
- Lower Water Usage
Solar panels do not require water for electricity generation. On the other hand, traditional power plants often use water for cooling purposes in steam turbines, which can result in significant water consumption. These power plants that rely on water for cooling often withdraw large volumes of water from rivers, lakes, or oceans, and can have negative impacts on water quality and aquatic ecosystems. Besides that, the significant evaporation of water can contribute to water scarcity, which is an issue that will not occur when solar energy systems are employed.
- Reduced Land Use
Fossil fuel extraction, transportation, and power plant infrastructure often cover large areas, contributing to higher land use. Solar panels, however, have a high energy density, and can generate a significant amount of electricity without requiring extensive land as they can be built atop buildings.
Additionally, solar energy systems are non-intrusive and do not require excavation or extensive infrastructure as compared to fossil fuel power plants. They generally have a lower environmental impact on the land, while fossil fuel power plants may lead to land degradation and habitat destruction as they involve surface mining or drilling.
- Reduced Noise Pollution
Traditional power generation methods, such as those relying on fossil fuels, often involve complex machinery and combustion processes that generate substantial noise. The continuous hum of turbines, rumbling of engines, and the overall mechanical din associated with these power plants contribute to noise pollution, impacting both surrounding ecosystems and nearby communities.
In contrast, solar energy offers a quieter and more environmentally friendly approach to electricity generation as they operate silently. The solar panels have no moving parts and produce no noise as they convert sunlight into electricity. This reduction in noise pollution improves the quality of life for communities located around them, and allows these systems to be integrated into urban and residential areas without causing disturbances.
- Renewable and Sustainable Energy
Unlike fossil fuels that are extracted from finite reservoirs within the Earth’s crust, solar energy leverages the virtually infinite power radiated by the sun, which is a sustainable resource that will never deplete.
Beyond its renewable nature, the entire lifecycle of solar panels, from manufacturing to installation and operation, can be managed with environmentally conscious practices. And as innovations in solar technology continue to enhance efficiency, reduce material usage, and improve recycling methods, solar energy systems will only become more sustainable in the future, contributing to mitigating climate change and reducing dependency on finite resources.
- Reduced Energy Loss
Traditional power generation involves converting energy at a central location before transmitting it across vast networks of power lines to reach homes and businesses. During this process, energy losses occur as a result of resistance in the power lines, leading to wasted electricity and reduced overall efficiency. Conversely, solar installations can be distributed close to end-users, generating electrical energy near the point of consumption. This minimises transmission and distribution losses, making solar power more efficient and environmentally-friendly.
- Lower Energy Production Cost
Sunlight, the fuel for solar energy, is abundant and available at no cost while fossil fuels require extraction and transportation. By tapping on the sun’s energy, there is no need for resources to be procured at high prices.
Although an upfront investment is needed to install solar PV systems, they generally have minimal operational costs once they’re fully set up. Both home and business owners can enjoy substantial savings when they choose to adopt solar.
As the demand for solar panels continues to increase and manufacturing processes become more efficient, the price of solar panel installations will also drop further. This helps to make solar energy more affordable.
Learn More: How Effective are Solar Panels in Cutting Electricity Expenses?
- Energy Independence
Energy independence refers to a state in which a country is able to meet its energy needs without relying heavily on external sources or vulnerable supply chains. Achieving this involves generating a substantial portion of the required energy from domestic and sustainable sources, reducing dependence on imported fuels or external energy infrastructure.
This independence is extremely important for many nations as it enhances a country’s stability during emergencies, such as natural disasters, geopolitical crises, or when an increased demand drives up energy costs. With less reliance on others, a country can maintain a robust economy, environmental sustainability, and resilience.
Solar energy is pivotal in fostering energy independence in Singapore as it is readily, and abundantly available in our tropical climate. This natural resource reduces our dependence on imported fossil fuels and mitigates the geopolitical and economic vulnerabilities associated with global energy markets.
- Mitigate Urban Heat Island Effects
The Urban Heat Island (UHI) effect is a phenomenon in which urban areas experience significantly higher temperatures than the surrounding rural areas. This temperature difference occurs due to the modification of land surfaces in urban environments, which typically have a higher proportion of impervious surfaces, such as concrete and asphalt. These surfaces absorb and retain heat, resulting in elevated temperatures. As the majority of Singapore’s land has been used for urban development, this effect may be more pronounced here.
Solar energy can play a crucial role in mitigating the effects by:
- Keeping Roofs Cool
Solar panel installations on rooftops can help to prevent roofs from heating up through a combination of shading, thermal insulation and the absorption of sunlight. This ultimately affects the temperatures within a building.
Solar panels act as a physical barrier between the roof surface and the sun to reduce the direct exposure to sunlight and prevent the roof material from absorbing solar radiation. As a significant portion of the sun’s rays is blocked, the roof temperature is lowered.
The gap between the solar panels and the roof surface also creates an air pocket that acts as thermal insulation. This airspace allows for ventilation and helps dissipate some of the heat absorbed by the roof.
- Providing shade and canopy
One of the ways in which solar panels contribute to reducing the UHI effect is by providing shade to outdoor spaces. When installed above public areas, sidewalks, or outdoor seating, solar panels create sheltered zones, shielding people from the sun’s intense rays. This shading effect not only makes outdoor spaces more comfortable but also helps to lower the ambient temperature by preventing the absorption of solar radiation by paved surfaces.
- Reducing reliance on fossil fuels
Traditional power sources not only emit greenhouse gases, but also release waste heat during the generation of energy. This exacerbates the UHI effect, compounding the already elevated temperatures.
Solar panels generate electricity without emitting greenhouse gases or producing waste heat, presenting a cleaner and more sustainable alternative. As cities integrate solar energy into their power grids, they decrease their dependence on fossil fuel-based power plants, subsequently reducing the heat emissions associated with conventional energy production.
Frequently Asked Questions About Solar Energy
1. How do solar panels work?
Solar panels contain photovoltaic cells that convert sunlight into electricity. When sunlight hits the surface, electrons in the material are energised. As they move out of their original positions, they generate an electric current.
2. What are the benefits of installing solar panels for my home?
Solar panels help to generate electricity in a sustainable way, which helps to lower your carbon footprint. When you choose to power your home with solar energy, you eliminate the need to pay for electricity from the grid too. This helps you save money. Any excess electricity produced can even be sold back to the grid for credits.
3. How much do solar panels cost in Singapore?
The cost of solar panels vary, but a typical residential solar panel system can cost between $15,000 – $30,000.
4. Is my roof suitable for solar panels?
Most roof types can accommodate solar panel installation, but it also depends on factors like orientation and shading. Your type of roof may also affect how the solar panels are mounted.
5. Do I need government approvals to install solar panels?
Yes. New building projects with solar panel installations must reflect the solar PV system in the building plans, which should be submitted to the SCDF for approval. For existing buildings, you may not need to obtain approvals if it’s just a simple installation of solar panels. However, a permit is required if your building is built on conserved land.
6. What is net metering and is it available in Singapore?
Singapore does not offer full net metering schemes, but households can choose to sell excess solar electricity back to the grid by registering with SP Services or the Energy Market Company.
7. Are there maintenance costs for solar panels?
Solar panels require very minimal maintenance, mainly cleaning and occasional checks that will not incur much costs.
8. How long do solar panels last in Singapore’s climate?
Solar panels can last 25 years or more, with a gradual decline in efficiency over the years.
9. Is solar energy sustainable and feasible in Singapore?
Singapore receives a consistent amount of sunlight throughout the year, making solar energy a viable option. While the limited land area could be an issue, most solar panels can be installed on roofs to maximise the use of space.
10. Can I install solar panels on my HDB?
Unfortunately, HDB flat owners cannot choose to install solar panels for their homes. However, the government is working towards powering HDB buildings through solar panels by gradually installing more solar PV systems atop HDB roofs.
Climate change is a prevalent issue, but with solar energy, countries like Singapore can mitigate the effects of global warming and contribute to lowering global emissions.
Embrace solar technology today by choosing to install solar panels on the roof of your home or business. Perry Management Clean Energy is a solar energy company in Singapore that specialises in designing and installing solar PV systems. We offer a low-cost solution to encourage the adoption of this renewable energy. Get in touch with our solar panel specialists today to find out more about our services.
