Solar photovoltaic (PV) power generation is the process of converting energy from the sun into electricity using solar panels. Solar panels, also called PV panels, are combined into arrays in a PV system. PV systems can also be installed in grid-connected or off-grid (stand-alone) configurations.
The basic components of these two configurations of PV systems include solar panels, combiner boxes, inverters, optimizers, and disconnects. Grid-connected PV systems also may include meters, batteries, charge controllers, and battery disconnects. There are several advantages and disadvantages to solar PV power generation (see Table 1).
Solar energy technologies are diverse and continually evolving, offering a range of benefits and applications. Among the various types of solar energy technologies, photovoltaic cells, concentrated solar power, and passive solar design stand out.
It directly converts sunlight into electricity, providing a flexible and scalable solution for a variety of energy needs, from small personal devices to large-scale power generation. Photovoltaic (PV) cells, commonly known as solar cells, are the heart of PV solar energy systems.
Therefore, this article will explore the fundamentals of a basic solar power system. In a typical solar power generation system, the sunlight strikes the solar panels, generating DC electricity in the photovoltaic (PV) cells. The DC voltage travels through cables to the inverter and the inverter converts the DC electricity into AC electricity.
Solar panels: These are the flat panels that can be seen on rooftops or solar farms. They contain PV cells made from silicon or other materials. When sunlight hits the PV cells, it creates an electric current. Inverter: PV cells produce DC power, but most appliances and the power grid run on AC.