Basically, there are two different types of solar energy systems, and those are the photovoltaic (PV) panels and solar thermal systems. Photovoltaic Panels Photovoltaic panels are solar energy panels that convert solar energy and turn them into electricity that you can use to power up most of your appliances and household lighting, and should only be used for those particular uses. Make sure you read the company background and objectives so that you can fully understand the processes and types. The prices of resources will differ, depending on your setup, the materials you want and the brand. You should get to know your source more. Determine the method of payment, the method of shipment and when you expect the goods to arrive. You can actually save more by making your own solar panels, instead of having to buy from a store or hiring a pro to do the installation. You can get a lot of financial benefits by maintaining the material properly. Expect solar panels to last for up to 3 decades if well-maintained. Here are some tips on how to begin your project. Non-concentrating gatherers are ideal for regions that have lower amounts of direct sunlight and absorb the energy rays of the sun from direct and various reflecting angles. Solar power generation is under heavy research for ideal materials and processes of collecting the sun's energy and utilizing solar generators to create both heat and electricity. There are also other multi-layer cells that closely resembled the device. These were very expensive too, and were only used in the most unique applications. Thin film PV cells were also created and made in bulk. These were more cost-effective and less fragile, with about 20% efficiency. More Technologies There are several technologies now, including a minimum of 14 photovoltaic cell types, like polycrystalline silicon, thin film, monocrystalline silicon and amorphous cells. Compared to oil, oil burning will release carbon dioxide plus other greenhouse gases into the air. The process of getting oil can also lead to damaged or compromised ecosystems because of spills and dredging. Cheap and Easy People do not have to keep maintaining solar cells, because a panel can last about 30 years or more if well kept.