Solar Panels convert the suns energy into electricity that you can use in your home or business.  There are a variety of brands, sizes, and types to choose from.  Most solar panels will produce from 50 to 200 watts.  Solar panels or Photovoltaic (PV) modules are made up of a wired grid of combined solar cells.  Each solar cell is made from a semiconductor material, usually silicon.  The panel is encased in glass to protect it from the weather.  The panels are usually mounted to a rack in a sunny location on top of a roof.  

Solar Panels work optimally in direct bright sunlight.  However overcast conditions will still produce some power.  Solar Panels work just fine in the winter time as long as they aren't covered with snow.  In fact solar panels are better able to conduct electricity when they are cold.  A small PV system using just a dozen panels can power several electrical appliances and devices.  Solar panels are much more efficient than in the past and require very little maintenance.  Solar panels from the 1970's were only 1-2 percent efficient. Today most solar panels are in the 15-19 percent efficiency range which is about the same as the gas burned in your car. 

Most solar panels come with a 25 year warranty.  A qualified local solar installer can help you select the best solar panels for your project.  Solar panels should have a sticker with UL (Underwriters Listing).  This verifies the panel has passed testing for efficiency requirements.  The standard testing conditions for solar panels are 1 Atmosphere and 25 degrees Celsius.