PrintPhotovoltaic
In this off-grid application, two solar modules generate electricity that powers the beacon light. The small box at the base of the light houses a battery to store electricity so the light can be powered when the sun is not shining.
Credit: Vera Cole (Bermuda). Used with permission.
This is a solar array of 28 photovoltaic modules. The DC nameplate capacity of each module is 200 W. The capacity of the full array is 28 x 200W = 5,600 W or 5.6 kW. This array is installed in PA where historical weather data indicates that each installed kW will receive enough solar energy to generate about 1,200 kWh per year. Therefore, this array can be expected to generate roughly 6,720 kWhs per year, which is about half of the annual energy consumption of the residence on this property. The electricity generated by the solar array is direct current (DC). An inverter, mounted in the garage, converts the electricity to alternating current (AC) to match the electricity provided by the utility company and used throughout the home.
Credit: Vera Cole. Used with permission.
Photovoltaic power plants (“solar farms”) are essentially made up of the same components as residential scale solar: photovoltaic modules and inverter(s). See for yourself!
To View and Read Now
- Visit FPL and learn about their 25-MW photovoltaic power plant owned in Desoto, FL.
- Read three brief sections: Facts, Benefits and FAQs
- Be sure to view the enlarged photo--see the rows and rows of solar modules!
- Visit SolarPlaza and review the list with pictures of the ten largest photovoltaic power plants in the world.
Concentrating Solar Power
To Read Now
From Energy.gov, view Solar 101: Concentrating Solar Power (about 2 mins)
From The Atlantic (Mar 2014), read The Ivanpah Solar Electric Generating System (be sure to look at all the pictures!)