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Solar PV Explained
An array of solar modules convert solar radiation from the sun into electricity through a phenomenon known as the photovoltaic effect, where photons from the sun knock electrons in a solar cell to different energy levels creating a ‘potential difference’ (voltage). The sun provides a natural, renewable and free source of fuel.
Manufacturing Techniques
PV solar cells are currently made from layers of silicon that are doped with small amounts of different chemicals. This allows a DC current to be generated. There are different manufacturing techniques which means there are a number of different types of solar PV technology. The most common installations in the UK are Monocrystalline and Polycrystalline panels.
Monocrystalline vs Polycrystalline
Polycrystalline Solar PV panels work better in low light conditions.
Monocrystalline Solar PV panels work better in hotter conditions.
Rating Panels and Efficiency
The amount of electricity that can be produced per annum is dependent on the size and capacity of the solar PV system that is installed. Manufacturers rate their PV panels in relation to their peak power output under standard test conditions (i.e. radiation of 1,000 W/m2 at 25oC). This will vary from panel to panel, and their efficiency will be determined by the type of cell technology used in the panel, thus producing more power per square meter.
Capturing maximum Light
The area on which a PV array is positioned is paramount- placed where maximum light can be captured. The issues that are important to the effectiveness and efficiency of your solar PV system are:
Kingsley offer solar design, supply and installation for projects throughout Sussex, Surrey , Kent and Hampshire. Installing solar systems for private clients, builders and councils throughout the South East of England.
Join us on Facebook for live news and updates from Kingsley Eco Solutions
Manufacturing Techniques
PV solar cells are currently made from layers of silicon that are doped with small amounts of different chemicals. This allows a DC current to be generated. There are different manufacturing techniques which means there are a number of different types of solar PV technology. The most common installations in the UK are Monocrystalline and Polycrystalline panels.
Monocrystalline vs Polycrystalline
Polycrystalline Solar PV panels work better in low light conditions.
Monocrystalline Solar PV panels work better in hotter conditions.
Rating Panels and Efficiency
The amount of electricity that can be produced per annum is dependent on the size and capacity of the solar PV system that is installed. Manufacturers rate their PV panels in relation to their peak power output under standard test conditions (i.e. radiation of 1,000 W/m2 at 25oC). This will vary from panel to panel, and their efficiency will be determined by the type of cell technology used in the panel, thus producing more power per square meter.
Capturing maximum Light
The area on which a PV array is positioned is paramount- placed where maximum light can be captured. The issues that are important to the effectiveness and efficiency of your solar PV system are:
- Orientation – whilst daylight can be captured from any direction, a south facing orientation is the optimum. A south easterly or south westerly direction is also acceptable, and Solar PV systems can be also designed on an east or west elevation. However, when moving away from the optimum the amount of electricity generated is less.
- Shadowing – like a bad battery amongst new ones, shadowing on one area of a panel can drag down the whole array. When designing a Solar PV system, careful attention must be given to avoiding shade from trees, chimney stacks, etc. Putting arrays on separate inverters does keep efficiency and performance guaranteed.
- Pitch - a tilted array of panel will receive more light than a straight vertical one. Panels should be pitched between 20 and 50 degrees of horizontal for maximum performance with the optimum being 30 - 45 degrees.
Kingsley offer solar design, supply and installation for projects throughout Sussex, Surrey , Kent and Hampshire. Installing solar systems for private clients, builders and councils throughout the South East of England.
Join us on Facebook for live news and updates from Kingsley Eco Solutions
