How Do Solar Electrical Power Generating Systems Work?
A solar electrical power generating system provides power by transforming the sun's energy into usable electricity. With the rising cost of utility generated power and the increasing technology and efficiency of alternative energy creation, a solar electrical system is a good surrogate to the sole use of typical utility power. Does this Spark an idea?
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Basics
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When there is sufficient sunlight, direct current (DC) electricity is created in a solar powered electrical system. Because household devices and appliances typically use alternating current (AC), an inverter converts the DC to AC and allows for immediate use.
Generation
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A photovoltaic system uses panels that transform the sun's light rays into electricity. A photovoltaic panel is created by sandwiching thin layers of silicon beneath a layer of non-reflective glass. Silicon transfers the sun's energy into the DC electricity that is then converted into usable AC.
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Storage
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A battery bank provides for the storage of excess energy that can be used at night or on cloudy days. The addition of batteries is necessary when creating an off grid system.
System Types
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A solar energy power system can be added to an existing power source or can be a standalone system that generates all of the electricity. A system tied into an existing electrical grid is a good option when a power supply already exists. A standalone system, oftentimes referred to as an off grid system, costs more, but it is a good alternative when there is no other available power source or when the system is going to be used at a remote location.
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References
- Photo Credit Solar image by Thomas Leiss from Fotolia.com
