| By :
Aaron Dicks
Copyright (c) 2010 Aaron Dicks Photovoltaic (PV) systems can be grouped into two categories: stand-alone systems and grid- connected systems. In stand-alone systems the solar energy yield is matched to the energy demand. In instances when the solar energy yield does not correspond in time with energy demands from the connected loads extra storage systems are often utilized. The energy storage system is generally used when the energy generated is often not used at the time it is generated. For Example Solar PV systems installed for homeowners make most of the energy during day light even though most of the energy is not used until night. Rechargeable batteries are used to store this electricity until it is ready for use. To ensure the batteries are protected and have a long lasting life suitable charge controllers are used as a power management unit. Solar PV systems can be supported by further power sources such as a wind or diesel generators - this is known as a hybrid system. Standalone systems have a number of benefits and are opening the doors to many new opportunities. Where it is not cost effective, feasible or desirable to install an electricity supply from the mains utility grid stand-alone systems can be implemented. Grid-connected Solar PV systems utilize the national grid which acts as a storage unit for the energy produced. A grid system is made up of the following components: solar module array, solar array combiner/junction box, direct current (DC) cabling, DC main disconnect/isolator switch, Inverter, AC cabling, Meter cupboard with power distribution system, supply and feed meter and electricity connection. Grid connected systems are more common in the UK as homeowners are able to benefit from a recently introduced government incentive called the Feed-in Tariff. The incentive pays homeowners for every kWh of electricity produced by their Solar PV System. Stand-alone systems are often found in more remote locations and developing countries. Stand-alone systems can be vital in supplying electricity to locations which don't have access to the grid. Other uses for stand-alone systems include mobile systems on cars, camper vans, boats, remote mountain cabins, weekend and holiday homes, parking ticket machine, traffic signals, applications in gardening and landscaping and pump systems for drinking water and irrigation. On-grid systems are typically found on the roofs of private houses, apartment blocks, schools and agricultural and industrial buildings. In addition to this a growing number of large scale installations are being found in the UK, often funded by investors, energy utility and operating companies.
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