how much does it cost to operate a solar panel?

1. roderick_young says:

   July 27, 2010 at 6:43 pm

   Photovoltaic panels have almost zero recurring operating cost. Once installed, they are good for the next 20-25 years, typically. The exceptions are if the panels are not tilted, then you need to pay someone a few times a year to go up there with a mop to clean them. Otherwise, rain and morning dew make the dirt slide off automatically.

   The cost for your system will depend on the power needs of your school. It also depends on your location. As a government entity, a school is not eligible for the current 30% federal incentive, but may be for state incentives, depending on where you live.

   Anyway, once you size your system, which will be large, figure on $7 / watt cost for a large system. This would be less if you live in a state with good incentives. So for example, if you needed a 100 kW system, the price would be $700,000. $100,000 of that money is to replace the inverters that break after 15 years, so you would be paying $600,000 up front.
2. Mathew W says:

   July 27, 2010 at 6:43 pm

   It operates itself, except if there is a problem. It costs a lot to buy and setup.

   Some solar panels move to track the sun- the tracking equipment is complicated and needs maintenance.

   Some solar power systems have banks of batteries to store the energy- those wear out eventually. Some solar panels feed into the power grid, and there is a cost associated with managing that power- paid by the power company.
3. Bandett says:

   July 27, 2010 at 6:43 pm

   to have a photo voltaic solar array that could power a small house it would cost about 75,000 to $100,000 to buy and install the system. then there is routine maintenance, battery replacements.etc. Putting a few panels on your school will do nothing at all except waste money better used for other things. and in just a few years they will obsolete and disconnected and taken to the dump.
   http://mb-soft.com/solar/photovol.html

   you should really be able make report with this informatin.
   So for your school it would cost millions, you need to figure out how many kilowatts your school use, then use the information above to calculate how large of system would be required you will be very impressive and the most informed person in your school.