The sun is one of the most viable sources of renewable energy in the Philippines. Filipinos are blessed to have plenty of sunshine all year long, so it’s only logical that many “green” minded individuals and corporations are leaning towards solar power utilization through solar panels. But how do solar panels really work?
Solar panels are devices that convert sunlight into electrical energy for your daily consumption. This converted energy can light up homes and buildings, be used for heating or cooling rooms and even power up electrical appliances. A solar panel is made up of silicon cells organized and patterned in a manner for them to absorb and convert sunlight into electrical energy once it hits the panel. The converted electric current is then stored in a battery, ready to be used for homes and buildings.
Several factors can affect the efficacy of solar panels and your stored energy will greatly depend on the amount of sunlight that hits your panels. Other contributory factors include the climate, daytime hours and the sun’s position. This is why the Philippines, being a tropical country, have a feasible solar energy source all year long.
Primavera Residences, the first of its kind “green” mixed-used building developed by Italpinas Development Corporation, has taken advantage of this abundant renewable energy source. They have installed 18-kWh solar panels that can generate 19,200kWh or estimated 307K savings in a year cumulative electric bill shared by all unit owners.
The buildings of Primavera Residences are designed using passive technology going big on natural ventilation and lighting. At the rooftop are solar panels to provide for the building electric consumption for the common areas. It is not like any other building because it gives you the impression of openness through its inner courtyard and natural lighting. The availability of alternative energy source is a major cost-saving for unit owners. In the long run, the savings will add up, and it is not just about finances, but it is also a big impact on saving the planet too.