SOLAR SYSTEMS DIAGRAMM

The Basic building block of a Photovoltaic (PV) system is the solar cell. When "photons" (particles of energy in sunlight) hit the surface of the solar cell, electrons (particles of energy in atoms) are released, generating a flow of electricity. The cells are connected together to provide electrical voltage and power output levels. This group of cells is packaged in a protective enclosure called a "module". Solar modules produce direct current (DC) electricity. This type of power is useful for many applications and for charging storage batteries. When alternating current (AC) is required, DC can be changed to AC by an inverter. When energy produced by solar electric systems is not to be used immediately, or when an energy reserve is required for use when sunlight is not available, that energy must be stored. The most common storage devices used are batteries. Although both DC and AC systems can stand alone, AC systems can also be tied into a utility grid. During times of peak power usage, the system can supply the normal electric power grid for extra electricity if needed.