Photovoltaic System

What is a photovoltaic system?

A photovoltaic system is an electrical, electronic and mechanical system to transform solar energy in current (direct or alternate) and is made up by:

  • photovoltaic modules, which transform solar energy in direct current (so called photovoltaic effect);

  • inverter, the “heart” of the implant, which transforms direct current in alternate current and runs connection with the electric grid;

  • other components such as cables, connectors, monitoring systems etc…

How does a photovoltaic system work?

Photovoltaic technology  allows to tranform solar energy into current. It utilizes the photovoltaic effect

It exploits the so-called photovoltaic effect which is based on the properties of some semiconductor materials (including silicon, which is widespread in nature) that, properly handled, are capable of generating electricity if struck by solar radiation.

The most basic device capable of effecting such a conversion is the photovoltaic cell that is capable of delivering typically 1 / 1, 5W of power when it is hit by a radiation of 1000 W/m2 (standard conditions of irradiation). Multiple cells assembled and connected in series between them in a single structure forming the photovoltaic module.

The correct exposure to the solar irradiance of the photovoltaic modules represent a key factor in order to achieve an optimal performance of the system in terms of production feasibility of electricity.

How long does a photovoltaic system last?

Scientific research on the first plants installed in the 80’s measured modules output establishing it diminishes 0,4% per year.

It means that, potentially, your implant output after 40/45 years is around 80-85% of the initial output and only after a century the output will be halved producing between 60-50% of the initial output.

How much space does a photovoltaic system need?

To realize 1kW photovoltaic system it occurs around 7-8 m2 depending by the module type.