A solar panel is the most elementary part of a solar energy system.
Solar energy being one of the best forms of renewable resources, is constantly evolving. Scientists and engineers are always trying to come up with better and more efficient models than the existing predecessors.
The renewable energy sector is growing on an average of 10.3% year on year. With this massive growth, the industry is noticing a subtle demand for new and specified utility products.
Mini Solar panels play a key role in this game of versatility and convenience. They offer a suitable alternative to conventional energy sources for some distinct gadgets.
What are mini solar panels?
In simple words, mini solar panels are small-scale counterparts of their larger variants.
They provide energy to smaller devices like speakers and mobile phones which don’t require a heavy load of electricity to function.
These miniature panels come in handy during certain occasions when the size of a traditional solar panel becomes literally impractical for usage.
Features of mini solar panels
The origin of miniature panels were invented to curtail previously existing problems like immobility and high maintenance.
In addition to that mini solar panels cost much less in contrast to conventional solar panels. Steady improvement in technology and better manufacturing processes have pushed the demand.
Simple characteristics like the smaller size and eco-friendliness have helped the product form a niche market of its own.
Since mini solar panels are widely used for travel purposes, manufacturers are also focusing on upgrading the water-resistance feature to enhance durability.
How do mini solar panels work?
The way a mini solar panel works is not very different from an orthodox solar panel. The PV (Photovoltaic) cells present inside solar panels absorb the sunlight which falls on them.
Later this energy gained from the sun is converted into electrical form with the help of silicon-based semiconductors present inside the PV cells.
Needles to say, the solar radiation absorbing area of these miniature panels is not that big. Therefore, these solar panels cannot produce a colossal amount of energy like regular panels.
Uses of mini solar panels
Charging your smartwatch
In the gadget world, the trend has largely shifted from quartz watches to smartwatches. They also provide an ample amount of useful applications. As the mini solar panels have very low degradation, you can use them for a lifetime to charge up your smartwatch.
Powering up security cameras
Wireless security cameras can be easily charged with mini solar panels. Changing the batteries of a security camera that is installed at an inclination or difficult to reach area can be challenging. Using a mini solar panel eliminates the need to change the battery when it gets used up.
Charging up LED Flashlights
Many LED flashlights used for trekking and other adventures now come with an additional micro solar panel. They eliminate the requirement of additional batteries and carrying them.
Providing power to your mobiles and laptops
Mobile phones and laptops, the most vital gadgets of this millennium can be charged with a miniature-sized solar panel. So, you can put a cut on your electricity bill if you’re using solar panels to charge up your devices.
Mini solar panel price
Following is an approximate price range for mini solar panels from some top manufacturers:
- Jackery SolarSaga 60W Solar Panel
- Keshoyal Foldable Solar Panel
- ROCKPALS SP003 100W Foldable Solar Panel for Solar Generator
- Sunnytech 0.5w 5v 100ma Mini Small Solar Panel
- Helidallr Solar Panel for Security Camera
Conclusion
The prime reason why mini solar panels are becoming so popular is quite understandable. They are able to produce optimum energy for specific products and devices using minimal area. A big solar panel not only costs more but also requires expertise to maintain.
Mini solar panels have just diversified their utility and minimized this centralization problem that traditional panels always had.
Using a mini panel, you can charge up your phone, your laptop, etc. If you can section up your devices and purchase mini panels accordingly, you’ll be able to charge all the gadgets simultaneously with ease.
