PHOTOVOLTAICS TODAY

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However, recent advances in both photovoltaics and power inverters (which change low-voltage, DC electricity to highvoltage, AC electricity) have altered the way most systems are installed. Panels are less expensive, particularly when the price is adjusted for inflation, and power inverters have become much more efficient and less costly, as well. Consequently, there's a growing preference for high-voltage systems that mimic normal household current.

With this change in the way photovoltaic panels are put to work has come a significant change in the typical PV owner's lifestyle. Five years ago, most users were resigned to the fact that solar electricity would force them into a more "primitive" way of life—with limited appliance selection and rationed energy resources. Not any more. Today, most people would have a hard time telling the difference between electricity provided by a modern photovoltaic system and that offered by the area's utility company. There's no longer any reason to put up with a less than acceptable selection of 12-volt appliances. If it plugs into the wall, PV panels and an inverter can run it.

SHOPPING FOR PANELS

As cell technology and system design have matured, the PV marketplace has changed considerably. This is a time of great opportunity for the bargain hunter. Discount panels can be found almost anywhere . . . in fact, a quick look through the ads in this magazine will show that Energy Sciences (the Solarex retail outlet) is selling its 30-watt module for two hundred bucks and change. That's a little more than half of what a comparable module sold for only one year ago.

The persistent can also find bargain panels on the surplus market. These may be used modules salvaged from a renovated system, or they may be from inventory overflow. Several manufacturers are currently offering heavy discounts on new but discontinued items.

As the market goes through the shakeout period that's almost certain to precede the expiration of the solar tax credits at the end of this year, you're likely to see steady dumping of PV modules as manufacturers and distributors alike cash out prior to the sales slump that will probably follow. Furthermore, it seems unlikely that prices will go up after the credits have expired. Overall, the discount market is the best it's ever been, and it looks as if it might stay that way for another couple of years.

Big savings can also be realized by joining with others to buy in bulk. Over the years, the PV-Network News (subscriptions are available for $15 per year from Solar Works!, Rt. 2, Box 274, Santa Fe, NM 87501) has sponsored a number of bulk purchases of ARCO Solar panels for its subscribers . . . and at excellent prices. These weren't closeouts or seconds, mind you; they were first-quality solar modules under full warranty.

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