Solar Panels

Reduce your carbon footprint by installing solar panels onto your commercial property. Also known as photovoltaic panels, this technology provides you with system stability and independency from the grid, allowing you to generate your own electricity and, therefore, protect you from rising energy costs.

Upgrade your sustainability strategy and source clean energy that generates no pollution or greenhouse gas emissions by installing solar power panels. We're proud to stock a broad selection, from 12V to 120W solar panels, varying in appearance and performance. It means that we're guaranteed to have a product that best suits your energy production requirements.

Browse our online selection and begin your order today. Our friendly team of experts are always on hand to assist so, if you require further information on any of our products, contact us today and we'll be more than happy to advise.

What are solar panels?

Solar panels contain a number of cells that contain photovoltaic material like silicon. Electricity is created when sunlight hits the panels, whereby the solar cells generate solar power. The stronger the sunlight, the more electricity is created.

Solar inverters are used to convert the electric current from DC to AC, so that they can then be used to power various appliances within your building. The electricity can be stored in a battery and sold on to energy suppliers or can be used at a later date when there is a lack of sun to produce the electricity you need.

Small solar panels are available to purchase - however, larger-capacity systems are more productive and, therefore, best used on commercial buildings.

What are the benefits of using solar panels?

There are many benefits to using solar panels, especially if you're looking at ways to implement sustainable practices into your business strategy.

• Save money: Generating your own electricity helps to reduce your energy bills and protect you from any rising energy costs.
• Renewable: Solar energy is an effective source of renewable energy as we generally experience sunlight on a regular basis.
• Clean energy: You'll be reducing your carbon footprint by generating clean energy that has zero noise pollution, doesn't emit greenhouse gases, and has low visual impact.
• Promotes sustainable future: The installation of solar panels contributes to a sustainable future, promoting your environmental responsibility. Solar technology helps to reduce your reliance on fossil fuels and contributes to a more efficient way of generating electricity.

What are the different types of solar panel available?

There are three main types of solar panel available: monocrystalline, polycrystalline, and thin film. Each solar panel differs between performance, appearance, cost, and design material. Depending on your specific needs, you must choose a system that best suits your property and individual requirements.

Monocrystalline

This is the most expensive option out of the three due to manufacturing costs. Each of the solar cells are referred to as single crystalline cells and are made from the most efficient materials to help with process of converting sunlight to electricity.

This space-saving solar system achieves maximum efficiency and is incredibly long-lasting throughout all weather conditions. They perform well in low levels of sunlight and can easily generate electricity in cloudy conditions.

Polycrystalline

Polycrystalline solar panels typically cost less as the solar cells are created with silicon fragments instead of pure silicon crystal. Therefore, the manufacturing process is simpler, keeping costs low.

This system comes with a structural frame for easy installation, with the panels having a high power density. The silicon used to create the solar cells is robust and long-lasting - your solar panels will likely have a lifespan 25 years or longer if properly maintained.

Thin film

Typically the cheapest option on the market, thin-film, flexible solar panels are lightweight and easy to maneuver. Installation is quick and easy, making them less labor-intensive than alternative solar panel systems.

Despite having a lower level of efficiency and taking up space, thin-film solar panels are widely applicable to a range of building types and are ideal for mass production.

What applications are solar panels suitable for?

Solar panels are suitable for a variety of applications, enabling you to create an efficient solar energy system for your commercial building. Some of the main uses include:

• Water heating: A sustainable alternative to traditional water heating, solar water heating systems use the energy provided by the sun to heat up water that is stored in a hot water cylinder or thermal store.
• Agricultural: Solar energy can be used to dry out various agricultural and animal products, such as fruit, milk, fish, and potatoes.
• Heat buildings: Heat your business space with a flat plate collector device which converts solar radiation into thermal energy.
• Lighting: Solar energy is ideal for various lighting fixtures such as indoor lights, streetlights, and security lights.

Why choose RS for solar panels?

We have a wide variety of solar power panels from which to choose, ensuring that you can take care of all of your solar energy requirements. As one of North America's largest suppliers of high-quality power products, you can always rely on us to deliver exceptional performance, no matter your requirements or price point.

We also aim to provide a level of customer support that matches our excellent product offering. If you have a question regarding our service or our product range, be sure to get in touch with us today to speak to a member of our friendly team. Alternatively, head over to our expert hub to find a selection of handy resources and industry information.