Photovoltaics - How Does Solar Pv Work?

Solar photovoltaic systems are a fantastic way of generating clean electricity for your home

, all year round, but how do they work?

How does a solar PV cell generate electricity? At the heart of a solar PV system are photovoltaic cells: devices which are capable of converting light into an electric current. These photovoltaic cells do the 'clever bit' of transforming the sun's energy into electricity, but they are quite delicate. Please read the links for more detailed information on this. Because of this, they are combined by a manufacturer into PV modules (or panels), which protect the cells from moisture and mechanical damage.

How does the electricity spread through the home? The electricity produced by solar panels is a particular type of electricity known as DC - 'direct current'. However, we use a different type in our homes, known as AC - 'alternating current'. To convert the electricity into the required form, we use an additional device, called an inverter. The inverter constantly monitors the electricity coming in from the national grid, and then modifies the DC produced by the solar panels to match it perfectly. A single AC wire is run in a direction determined on the site survey directly to your consumer unit (fuse box) onto a single MCB (miniature circuit breaker).

How can I use my solar PV electricity? The electricity generated by the solar PV system is automatically used directly to power your house (lights, television, appliances, etc). Any excess is sold straight back to your supplier, you don't need to do anything.

How do clouds affect generation? Solar PV operates on light, rather than heat, so even if the day seems cool - if there is light, the system will be generating electricity. PV systems will therefore generate electricity all year round. Nevertheless, the output will fluctuate seasonally, with the most electricity being produced in the bright summer months.

How do I know if a solar PV system is suitable for my home? Solar PV panels are suitable for both urban and rural locations and are adaptable to almost any building which has sufficient exposure to light. Typically, solar PV panels are mounted on a pitched roof, however they can also be mounted on a flat roof or on the ground. See Is Solar PV Suitable For My Home for more information.

How much will I get paid for my solar PV electricity? Over the course of a year, a solar photovoltaic system will save you money by reducing your electricity bill, and will earn you at least 44p for every unit of electricity that you generate on systems under 4kWp. See Investing in Solar PV for more information.

How do I get paid? You simply need to inform your electricity supplier that you're installing a PV system. They will send you some forms and we'll help you fill them out.

How long does it take to repay the embedded carbon? How long does a PV cell have to generate electricity for until it pays back the carbon (energy) required to make it? This is generally a shorter timeframe than the economic payback, and nearly always under four years.

How do I inform the national grid? Your PV system installer will inform them on your behalf, by contacting your distribution network operator.

by: Nick Gent

POST COMMENT

Gift For Yourself, After The Holidays... A New Kitchen! That Is Quite A Nice Gift To Yourself! Exterior lighting for homes Pittsfield Chiropractor Helps Fibromyalgia Suffers With New Alternative Procedures Dr Oz Breakfast Drink For A Excellent Energy? Best credit cards for sorting out your finances in the New Year Htc Unveil The New Legend Most Sought-After 30th Birthday & New Baby Boy Gifts World Junior 2011 Limousine Service in Buffalo New York Solar Water Heater Plans- How To Start? Exclusive DISH Network deals for New Year Alternative Fuel And Energy Sources - On Solar Panels And Biodiesel Many unconventional new beds Benefits Of New Jersey Dryer Vent Cleaning