What are the five main types of PV system configurations?
DC Direct Use, Grid-Connected, PV Fuel Saver, Off-Grid with Battery, PV-Diesel-Battery Hybrid.
What is a DC Direct Use system?
It powers DC loads directly (like water pumps). Simple and no grid needed.
What is a Grid-Connected PV system?
Sends power to the grid and can export or use energy at home. Needs a bi-directional meter.
What is a PV Fuel Saver system?
Works with a grid or diesel generator to reduce fuel or power costs.
What is an Off-Grid system with batteries?
Stores energy in batteries for use at night. Great for remote areas, but batteries are costly.
What is a PV-Diesel-Battery Hybrid system?
Combines solar, diesel, and batteries for reliable, efficient power.
What are the key points to remember about PV systems?
Panels = Heart (make electricity), Inverter = Brain (controls & converts power), Design depends on needs, budget & location, Batteries = backup but expensive, Mounting choice affects cost & performance.
What are the main components of a PV system?
PV modules, combiner boxes, inverter, mounting structures, cables, AC connection point, energy meter, transformer, monitoring system.
What do PV modules do?
Convert sunlight into DC electricity.
What is the function of combiner boxes?
Collect DC from panels and protect the circuit with fuses/breakers.
What does the inverter do?
Converts DC to AC and controls power quality.
What are mounting structures used for?
To hold solar panels firmly at the right tilt and orientation.
What is the function of cables?
To carry DC and AC power safely through the system.
What is the AC connection point?
Where inverter output connects to the house or grid.
What does the energy meter do?
Measures how much electricity is produced or used.
What does the transformer do?
Steps up AC voltage for grid or distribution use.
What is the function of Monitoring/SCADA?
Tracks and supervises system performance.
What are PV modules made of?
Many solar cells connected inside a protective frame.
What type of current do PV modules produce?
DC (Direct Current).
What happens when solar cells are connected in series?
The voltage increases.
What happens when solar cells are connected in parallel?
The current increases.
What are the output cables of a solar panel?
One positive and one negative DC cable.
What determines the power rating of a module?
The number of cells and how they are connected.
What are the main functions of an inverter?
Convert DC to AC, track maximum power (MPPT), and provide safety & monitoring.
