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Solar fountains

Even though the systems used for solar fountains are smaller, it is a fact that these systems have a lot in common with the systems used to provide energy to homes.

For example, solar fountains use the same kind of photovoltaic cells that homes and businesses use. Even though the panels for fountains are typically going to be smaller, the functions are the same.

One of the differences between the systems used for home solar energy and solar fountains is the fact that solar energy must be used in real time with solar fountains, whereas home systems are more easily able to store the energy for future use.

As evening draws near, a home’s solar system often has a battery from which it can draw excess energy that had been stored throughout the day. Most solar fountains do not have this convenience. When light hits the silicon cells of the PV panels, the energy that is produced must be used immediately. There rarely is a battery or backup system for solar fountains.

Solar fountains work best when the sun is brightest. A cloudy day does not exactly mean that the fountain will not work, but a lack of penetration from UV rays could cause a temporary slowing of the system.