Photovoltaic Introduction English / Deutsch    
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Solar electricity systems

Depending on the application, one can distinguishes two types of solar electricity systems : isoleted systems and grid connected systems.

In isoleted systems consisting of solar modules, drawer regulator, solar rechargeable battery (usually lead batteries) and if required a 230V inverter the surplus of energy which is produced during sunny days can be temporarily stored in a battery and later consumed as required. In the following picture, a simple unit without inverter is schematically represented, the energy stored during the day in a direct current circulation can then be used in the evening for illumination purposes.

What is Photovoltaics?
Radiation
Solar cells
Solar modules
Photovoltaic system
Potential
 
Isolated systems are used as autonomous small units for the electric supply of arrangements which are not grid connected like parking meters, navigation aids, telecommunication systems, or to the illumination of remote buildings. In larger autonomous electricity production systems for exemple for an extensive electricity supply of connected buildings a little 230V ac network operates often over an inverter. At the same time photovoltaic systems are frequently combined with additional generator as well as with diesel or wind generators to hybrid energy production systems.
 
The grid connected solar electricity systems do not possess storage battery. A grid connected inverter transforms the direct current produced by photovoltaic cells in alternate current, and the electric energy directly into the public grid. The produced solar electricity can then be used at any place.
Grid connected systems are mainly realised in the built environment on building surfaces as well as big stand alone systems are realised in the unbuilt environment. In the photovoltaic building integration systems, the solar electricity modules can become multifunctional, it can be used as insulation (roof and facade) or for shading. Countries like Switzerland with limited available land resources set since the end of the 1980's years in first line with the realization of solar electricity systems in the built environment.