Solar energy is one of the most widely available and sustainable energy sources. If solar energy is used, it is ten times the sum of all energy resources. Photovoltaic systems can be used to collect solar energy and convert it into electricity.
The photovoltaic system directly converts solar energy into electricity through solar panels or photovoltaic panels. A single solar panel produces about 2 watts, but when this separate battery is connected to the solar panel and then connected to the solar array, the solar panel can provide a lot of power.
How does the PV system work?
Solar radiation is directly converted into electric energy through solar panels (solar panels). When light shines on the junction between metal and semiconductor in the solar panel, voltage will be generated. The most popular and richest resource semiconductor is silicon. Crystalline silicon blocks are cut into thin wafers to make solar cells. The chip is processed to separate charges and form diodes on both sides. A diode is a device that allows current to flow in only one direction. It is placed between metal contacts so that the current can easily flow out of the battery.
4 factors to be considered for photovoltaic solar farms
1. Find the appropriate setting position
As long as there is enough installation space, solar power plants can be built anywhere. However, in order to maximize the capacity of solar power plants, it is best to set them in sufficient sunlight and try not to block the sun. Another consideration is the availability of the grid, where the generated electricity can be connected.
2. Ensure the power purchase agreement
The installation of photovoltaic solar energy requires a lot of investment, and the expected service life of the photovoltaic solar panel system is about 25 years. Due to the high cost of setting up, it is necessary to have a power purchase agreement of at least 20 years to ensure price and demand fluctuations, and to ensure that the purchaser guarantees the off-take price.
3. Consider the legal framework
The legal framework is one of the key issues in the establishment of solar farms. These legal frameworks need to be comprehensively evaluated before the legal operation and establishment of photovoltaic solar power plants.
The following points need to be considered:
Time frame for obtaining the license
Concerns about the integration of solar PV into the existing grid
The political climate of the country where the farm will be built and its position on renewable energy
Local land use restrictions
Solar power generation policies and incentives
Clear road map covering the whole life cycle of the project – from pre-operation to retirement
4. Decide what solar panel and structure to use
To complete the photovoltaic system, it is necessary to install solar panels, installation structures and inverters to generate electricity and convert direct current (DC) into alternating current (AC) for household and enterprise use. The battery is optional for additional power storage and off-grid use.
A. Solar panel type:
At present, the widely used solar panels include monocrystalline silicon, polycrystalline silicon and thin film solar panels.
Monocrystalline silicon is composed of a crystal structure, which is more efficient as electrons move more freely to generate electricity. However, monocrystalline silicon is more expensive.
Polycrystalline silicon chips consist of many different crystals. Compared with monocrystalline silicon wafer, its efficiency is lower but cheaper.
Thin film solar panels are made of amorphous silicon and other materials, including cadmium telluride (CdTe) and copper indium gallium selenium (CIGS).
B. Installation structure:
The installation structure is used to support the solar panels, which shall be able to withstand outdoor conditions. The widely used method is rack mounting, because it is robust, versatile and easy to construct. Another way to use it is to install it on the ground. It has a tracking mechanism that can automatically move the panel as the sun moves. This installation structure captures more solar energy, but requires higher investment and maintenance costs.
C. Inverter:
Inverters convert the direct current generated by solar panels into alternating current, which is used by most households and enterprises. The inverter can be a single inverter for converting power from all solar panels, or it can be a miniature inverter connected to each panel. Recently developed inverters allow two-way communication between inverters and power facilities. This new inverter helps to balance supply and demand, reduce costs, promote grid stability and limit power outages.
D. Battery:
Battery is an optional technology used to store excess power generated and can be used for off-grid use. Because solar energy is an intermittent resource, using batteries as storage can help establish electricity production, especially in peak season.
If you want to know more about solar panels, please contact us, the solar panel manufacturer – Huanqi Technology (Shenzhen) Co., Ltd.