How does it work?

The Anatomy of Solar PV Systems

Solar PV systems consist of several components, each playing a crucial role in converting sunlight into usable electricity. Let’s break down these components and understand how they work together:

1. Solar Photovoltaic Cells: These cells are the building blocks of solar panels and are typically made from semiconductor materials like silicon. When photons from sunlight interact with electrons in these cells, they knock the electrons into a higher state of energy, ultimately generating electricity. In simple terms, solar PV cells directly convert daylight into electricity.
2. Solar Panels (Modules): The heart of any solar PV system is the solar panels. These panels are usually mounted on roofs, walls, or on the ground. They are equipped with solar photovoltaic cells that can generate electricity from various types of solar radiation, including direct sunlight, diffused light, and even reflected sunlight. This versatility means that solar panels can produce electricity even on cloudy days.
3. Arrays: Groups of solar panels (modules) connected in series form an array. The more panels you have in an array, the more energy the system can produce. The power of a PV system is measured in kilowatts peak (kWp), and there are numerous panel manufacturers offering various power ratings, typically ranging from 300W to 600W.
4. Inverters: Solar panels produce direct current (DC) electricity, which is not suitable for most household appliances. Inverters play a vital role by converting the DC electricity into alternating current (AC) electricity, which is compatible with homes and businesses.
5. Generation Meters: This measures the amount of electricity generated in kilowatt-hours (kWh). This measurement is used to calculate payments for incentive programs.
6. Consumer Board (Fuse Board): The electricity then passes through your electrical fuse box to either be used or exported.
7. Smart Meter: Your Smart Meter measures any electricity you are buying from the grid, as well as any you are exporting, particularly under programs like the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) tariff, which applies to installations after January 2020.

Types of Solar PV Systems

When it comes to solar PV systems, you have several options to choose from, including:

• Standard PV Panels: These panels are the most common and come in various sizes and efficiencies to suit your space, budget, and energy requirements.
• Solar Tiles: Solar tiles are designed to integrate seamlessly into your roof, replacing traditional roof tiles. While they cost more initially, they can save money on roofing materials.
• Inverters: There are different types of inverters available, such as string inverters, which are commonly used and cost-effective, and microinverters, which attach directly to individual solar modules and offer higher efficiency at a potentially higher cost.
• Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT): MPPT technology optimizes the performance of PV modules by maximizing their power output. Inverters equipped with MPPT are like the brains of the solar system, ensuring it operates at peak efficiency.
• Monitoring Equipment: Monitoring equipment is essential for tracking your solar system’s performance. It helps you understand how much energy you are generating and enables you to optimize your energy usage effectively.