WHAT IS A SOLAR ELECTRIC OR PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEM?
Cells, Modules, Arrays Types of PV Systems PV System Components
Photovoltaic(PV) systems begin with PV cells that are connected electrically in series and/or parallel circuits. The PV cell is small and typically produces about 1 or 2 watts of power. The circuits are then sealed in an environmentally protective laminate to form modules. The modules are assembled as pre-wired, field installable units into the photovoltaic panels. The panels will contain one or more PV modules. The end construction is a photovoltaic array consisting of any number of PV modules and panels that can meet almost any electric power need.
- Grid inter-tied systems
integrate solar electricity using the grid as a secondary power source.
- Grid inter-tied with battery backup Add a battery to the system to collect excess solar energy for use
when light is low. Also tied to the grid as a secondary power source.
- Off grid photovoltaic systems
are not tied to the grid as a secondary power source.
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Solar panels
- the essential component that converts light into electricity
- Inverter - the component that transforms DC into AC
- Charge controllers - controls the
energy flow and protects your battery
- Solar batteries -
"tolerant" batteries that survive frequent charging and
discharging
- Grid tie inverter (aka "synchronous inverter") - an inverter that allows excess
electricity to flow back into the grid.
- Solar panel mounts - the hardware
that holds a panel in optimum basking position
- Solar panel tracking - adjusts the panels for optimum sun exposure