Photovoltaic electric systems are systems which use photovoltaic arrays, or solar panels, to capture and convert the energy from the sun into electricity. These systems allow the generation of electricity in a clean and reliable way. It also allows people to be independent of energy grids.
A photovoltaic electric system has a number of components: solar panels, electrical and mechanical connections, and electrical output regulators and/or modifiers. Solar panels are made up of photovoltaic cells, or solar cells. The cells produce very low voltage (usually just around 0.5 volts) so they are combined into panels. Cells are made from semi conductive materials, like silicon, that have the ability to capture and convert the energy from the sun into electricity. The beauty of the solar cells is that they are very durable, lasting for several decades. Also, most solar cell manufacturers offer warranties to their products for at least 20 years.
There are three types of solar cells available for use in photovoltaic electric systems: thin-film, polycrystalline and monocrystalline. All work well but monocrystalline cells typically are typically the most efficient. A solar cell can cost less than a dollar to a few dollars depending on its power output. The typical power output of a cell is less than one watt so a lot would be needed. It is best to buy whole solar panels than to painstakingly create one using individual cells. A solar panel can cost several hundreds to several tens of thousands again depending on the power output.
The solar panels of photovoltaic electric systems are usually mounted on roofs and wired to appliances using an inverter. An inverter is a device that converts direct current (DC) into alternating current (AC). Panels produce direct current only but most appliances use alternating so the original current has to be converted. To maximize the efficiency of the panels, they must be oriented towards the direction where there is maximum sunlight. Roofs, which are slanted for certain angles are ideal for this purpose.
Standalone photovoltaic electric systems use batteries to store electricity. The electricity produced by the panels goes to the batteries through conductor wires. Between the panels and the batteries is the output regulator. The job of the regulator is to switch off or switch on the system whenever necessary. If the batteries are fully charged, the regulators switch the system off to prevent overcharging. The opposite is also true. Batteries can cost to a few hundreds to several thousands depending on their capacity.
Home made photovoltaic electric systems may not cost much. Some of the parts can be modified from existing materials. Second-hand parts are also another option. It is possible to make a complete 800-watt system for less than a thousand dollars. However, making a home-made one is tedious so it is sometimes preferable to buy complete photovoltaic electric system packages. The packages can cost a few thousands to several tens of thousands depending on what their power output. Houses or establishments with many electrical appliances would obviously need a lot of power and a considerable amount of money. The good thing about photovoltaic electric packages is that they almost always come with a warranty and great customer support.
