In this post we will explore the various components of a photovoltaic system, with a special focus on the main parts and their specific functions.
Index:
- Types of PV systems
- Components of a PV system
- Monocrystalline and polycristalline solar panels
- Stringboxes and PV system switchboards
- Inverter: the core component of the PV system
- Batteries: storage systems
- Grid Connected PV system: meters
- PV system cables
Types of PV systems
Photovoltaic systems can be of two types: stand alone and grid connected.
Stand-alone systems are not fitted to an electricity distribution system: the energy produced is totally stored in the storage system and used only for the place powered by the system.
Grid connected systems on the other hand, are connected to the electricity distribution system, generating a two-way energy exchange with it. With this type of photovoltaic system, recourse is made to the electricity distribution system when the energy produced independently is not sufficient.
Components of a PV system
The components of a photovoltaic system are:
- Solar panels
- Stringbox
- Inverter
- PV Switchboard
- Storage batteries
In Grid Connected systems there are, in addition:
- Production counter
- Bidirectional meter
Monocrystalline and polycristalline solar panels
Solar panels transform solar energy into electrical energy through the photovoltaic effect. There are two main types:
- Monocristalline solar panels: They have homogeneous, dark blue, almost black cells that work best with perpendicular sunlight. They are the most expensive but offer high efficiency
- Polycristalline solar panels: Iridescent blue in colour, they contain several randomly oriented crystals per cell. They work well throughout the day, although they are not the most efficient when the sun’s rays are perpendicular
Stringboxes and PV system switchboards
In the sequence of which a photovoltaic system is composed, after the solar panels come the stringbox, then the inverters (with batteries), and then the photovoltaic switchboards. In this section we look at precisely the two switchboards.
In the sequence of which a photovoltaic system is composed, after the solar panels come the stringbox, then the inverters (with batteries), and then the photovoltaic switchboards. In this section we look at precisely the two switchboards.
PV Switchboard is a protective device on the AC side, i.e. close to the house to be powered.
Inverter: the core component of the PV system
Photovoltaic inverter converts the direct current produced by the panels into alternating current, which is used in homes. It is essential for adapting energy for self-consumption and feeding it into the electricity system.
On this subject, we invite you to read a previous article, where we describe in detail what inverters are and how to choose the one best suited to your needs.
Batteries: storage systems
Storage batteries store the energy produced by the PV system when it is not immediately required. These storage systems increase the available self-consumption and must be compatible with the inverter.
The batteries of a PV system differ according to three characteristics:
- Capacity
- Power
- Cycle life
Grid Connected PV system: meters
In the picture with the Grid Connected diagram above, in addition to the elements just analysed, there are two types of meters. These are provided directly by the national electricity service.
Grid Connected systems include two types of meters:
- Production counter: Measure all energy produced by photovoltaic panels
- Bidirectional meter: measures both energy fed into and withdrawn from the electricity distribution system
PV system cables
To ensure maximum efficiency and safety, the cables must comply with CEI EN 50618:2014 regulation, with a copper core and an insulation sheath supporting a conductor temperature of 120°C at max. The minimum cross-section must be 0.25 mm²/A for cables up to 50 metres in length.
We have explored the various components of a photovoltaic system, highlighting the function of each element. We hope that this post has been clear and informative, facilitating the understanding of a technical subject such as photovoltaic systems.
You might also be interested in:
- How to Install an EV Charger in the garage
- What is home automation? Meaning and definition in 2024
- What is the solar inverter? How it work and features