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How a Solar-electric (Photovoltaic) System Works
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The main component of a photovoltaic (PV) system is the solar cell. This is the part that actually converts the sun's energy into electricity. It consists of a simple chemical composition (usually suspended in silicon) that when struck by rays of light will produce a small electrical charge. This small electrical charge then combines with charges from others cells that have been connected in series or parallel to create a greater level of either voltage or current. The resulting assembly of cells is known as a module. Several modules can then be placed in series or parallel to produce even greater levels of voltage or current to meet the criteria of the system's owner.
The type of electricity produced by the PV system is direct current (DC). The type of electricity we use from the utility company in our homes is alternating current (AC). Therefore, the DC power must first be converted to AC power, by means of an inverter, before it can be used by the system owner or sold to the utility. The inverter will also synchronize the power's wave form and frequency to match the characteristics of the utility's power so all appliances in the home run properly and the utility can provide the excess power to other customers.
Though this is a simple, basic explanation of how a solar-electric system works, there are actually several variables that affect maximum power production as well as some safety precautions to be considered. A good, experienced PV system designer will evaluate your installation site and carefully design the right combination of modules, inverter, mounting rack, and wiring plan to achieve optimum power production, pleasing aesthetics, and the highest safety standards.
To view a short, one-minute video from the U.S, Department of Energy on how a PV cell works, click here.
An informative website from the U.S. DOE on the basics of PV can be found here.
To download and print a pamphlet from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory on PV basics, click here.
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Solar Cell
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PV Module
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Inverter
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Why We All Should be Using Clean, Renewable Energy
 There is no one, single reason why we should begin transitioning to clean, renewable energy. Curbing global warming has recently become the main rationale for developing non-carbon energy technologies. But for the past several decades, we have become increasingly more dependent on foreign sources of oil with the primary sources located in unstable regions of the world. In addition, oil resources in all parts of the globe are now on the decline, marking the beginning of the end to the current era of energy technology based on burning fossil fuels. Considering the crucial role energy plays in our economy and national security, it is paramount that we begin developing and using reliable, safe alternatives today.
But not only does clean, renewable energy help solve the problems mentioned above, there are numerous advantages that come along with it. There are no dangerous coal mines to enter, no radio-active waste to store, and our air, water, and earth remain clean and free of contamination.
But perhaps the most exciting aspect of it all is the fact that each of us can become our own energy producer. Renewable energy enables distributed generation where individuals, communities, and small businesses can all participate in this important new era by creating for themselves some or all of the energy they consume.
To continue learning how solar energy contributes to this worthwhile and necessary undertaking, visit this website from the U.S. Department of Energy.
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