PV Applications

The photovoltaic technology can be used in several types of applications:

Grid-connected domestic systems

This is the most popular type of solar PV system for homes and businesses in developed areas. Connection to the local electricity network allows any excess power produced to be fed into the electricity grid and sold to the utility. Electricity is then imported from the network when there is no sun. An inverter is used to convert the direct current (DC) power produced by the system to alternative current (AC) power for powering normal electrical equipment.

Grid-connected power plants

These systems, also grid-connected, produce a large quantity of photovoltaic electricity in a single point. The size of these plants range from several hundred kilowatts to hundred megawatts. Some of these applications are located on large industrial buildings such as airport terminals or railway stations.

Off-grid systems for rural electrification

Where no electricity is available, the PV system may be connected to a battery via a charge controller. An inverter may be used to provide AC power, enabling the use of normal electrical appliances. Typical off-grid applications are used to allow remote areas to access electricity (mountain huts, developing countries).

Hybrid systems

A solar system can be combined with another source of power, such as a biomass generator, wind turbine or diesel generator, in order to ensure a consistent supply of electricity. A hybrid system may be grid-connected, stand-alone or grid-support.

Consumer goods

Photovoltaic cells are used in many daily electrical appliances, including watches, calculators, toys, battery chargers, or professional sun roofs for automobiles. Other applications include power for services such as water sprinklers, road signs, lighting and phone boxes.

Off-grid industrial applications

Uses for solar electricity for remote applications are very frequent in the telecommunications field, especially to link remote rural areas to the rest of the country. Repeater stations for mobile telephones powered by PV or hybrid systems also have a large potential. Other applications include traffic signals, marine navigation aids, security phones, remote lighting, highway signs and waste water treatment plants. These applications are cost competitive today as they enable the availability of power in areas far away from electric mains, avoiding the high cost of installing cabled networks.