What is a Solar PV System?
Sunlight is composed of photons or solar energy particles. These photons have varied levels of energy that correspond to the different wavelengths of the solar spectrum. Single PV cells (also known as ‘solar cells’) are connected electrically to form PV modules, which are the building blocks of PV systems. A PV cell is built of semiconductor material. When photons reach a PV cell, they may reflect off it, travel through it, or be absorbed by the semiconductor material. Only the absorbed photons supply energy to make electricity.
The module is the smallest PV unit that can generate substantial amounts of PV power. Although individual PV cells produce only small amounts of electricity, PV modules are manufactured with varying electrical outputs ranging from a few watts to more than 475 watts of direct current (DC) electricity. The modules can be connected to PV arrays for powering a wide variety of electrical equipment.
Photovoltaic cells provide direct current (DC) power. DC electricity may be used to charge batteries that power direct current devices. In energy transmission and distribution networks, almost all power is supplied as alternating current (AC). Inverters are used on PV panels or in arrays to convert DC power to AC electricity.
Image: Energy central
Image: Gem energy
Components of Solar PV System
Solar photovoltaic systems are typically made up of six components: a solar PV array, a charge controller, a battery bank, an inverter, a utility meter, and an electric grid. The efficiency of the solar panels is determined by the precise installation of all of these components. However, a charge controller and battery bank are optional. Although these two components help you store and make greater use of your generated power, they may also raise the overall cost of the photovoltaic system.
Solar Photovoltaic Array
A solar photovoltaic array is made up of many solar PV panels that are electrically connected. The solar PV array uses sunlight to create direct current power. PV systems come in several designs and may meet a wide range of electrical requirements, regardless of how large or small the installation area is.
Charge Controller
To prevent the batteries from overcharging, charge controllers manage the DC coming from the solar panels. In addition to measuring the batteries' level of charge, a charge controller can cut off electricity to shield the batteries from harm. It is not always required to incorporate a charge controller into your photovoltaic system because not all of them have a bank of solar batteries. To put it another way, having a battery bank is the only need for a charge controller.
Battery Bank
When the energy produced by the PV array is stored and not immediately utilized, a battery bank ensures that none of your excess energy is wasted. When there is not enough sunshine, it can then, for example, provide power to your home at night or in extremely gloomy weather. Your photovoltaic systems may consume twice as much solar energy if you include a battery bank, while this is optional.
Inverter
A solar power inverter is a key part of any solar photovoltaic system, as it converts electricity from DC to AC. This is necessary, since you need AC power for the energy supply of your home appliances.
Utility Meter
The electricity usage in your home is measured by a power meter, regardless of the solar PV system you have installed. Your home's utility metre, which is linked to the PV system, calculates how much power you use.
Electric Grid
If your house is linked to the electric grid, you will be able to use the grid to deliver electricity to your house as needed, even at times when your PV system isn't producing enough energy for you to use.