SOLAR PV SYSTEM
INTRODUCTION TO PHOTOVOLTAIC (PVT) SYSTEMS
Growing concerns for the depletion of the world’s natural resources and our future energy supply has increased the need and development of solar power. The most critical advancement in the development of solar technology has been Photovoltaic, a solar energy system that uses semi-conductors to directly convert solar radiation into electricity.
HOW PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEMS WORK
Photovoltaic (PV) systems are composed of a large number of cells (typically made of crystalline silicon) arranged in formation on a metal frame, the entirety of which is known as a module.
When exposed to sunlight these cells produce a small direct current of electricity, and when used en masse will generate a large amount of electrical power with no moving parts, noise or emissions. The amount of electricity generated is dependent on several factors: the size and arrangement of the PV system, the PV module array, and the efficiency of the electrical components used to covert solar energy into electricity usable by your home or building (called inverters).
Introduction To Off Grid Solar Systems
In off-grid arrays, the solar panels generate direct current energy which is then connected to a Charge Controller to charge a set of batteries and stored in those rechargeable batteries. When energy is required, the direct current is sent from the battery to the stand-alone inverter and then converted into alternating current which can then be used to power a home or for any other electricity needs. These inverters are necessary for locations where no local power grid is available, or for anyone who wishes to remain completely independent of energy companies. It must be kept in mind that these systems are a very expensive option compared to the grid served electricity and comes up with a significant maintenance burden from the battery bank. With a stand-alone system, you will be unaffected by power outages because your system will be completely independent of the power grid. You will be free to consume electricity whenever you wish, provided your batteries are charged or your solar array is currently producing electricity When the utility power is unavailable or too expensive to bring in to your home, solar panels allow you to be your own utility company! You can live in peace, with no noisy gas generator to disturb the quiet. There are several variations of off-grid solar power, depending on your needs and budget. All variations of off-grid solar power depend on solar electric panels, Inverter, and the stored electricity in the battery bank