Abstract
Generating electricity from solar energy has a long history, but due to the inefficiency of the process, solar energy has not fulfilled its potential. In this study, major causes of energy loss in solar panels such as DC-to-AC power conversion, panel orientation, temperature, dust and dirt, aging and degradation, and even humidity and wind speed are identified and addressed. Additionally, common practices to remedy these problems are examined. These methods include sun tracking, protection shields, material improvements, regular cleaning, cooling, and AC solar generating without inverters.