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SOLAR TECHNOLOGY - AN OVERVIEW
Solar technology takes a significant and growing role within today’s building construction. The systems in use are being standardised, thus reducing the initial costs. Growing energy prices as well as strong governmental regulations will induce an increase for the implementation of solar technology when new buildings are constructed or renovation of the same are required.
Photovoltaic
Obtaining electrical power through solar energy.
Through the use of the so called photovoltaic effect, the solar modules generate power through sun energy. This process is called photovoltaic. The base material for the modules is still today mainly silicon which is won through sand. This raw material is found for example on the “sea shore” in abundance. Solar modules are connected together and positioned on house roofs in shadow free zones facing south. During the day electrical power is generated and collected. |
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As this generated power cannot always be totally consumed, the excess capacity can also be stored. Here battery’s like those in cars are ideal. As these are relative expensive as in just storing electricity one tends to go a different way especially when the systems are installed on buildings which have connection to the electrical consumer grid. This energy is transported into the grid and sold to the electricity companies. In times were more power is needed as can be produced through solar, then the grid supplies this via conventional means.
The general power grid is in this case like a large storage system. In order to achieve this, the solar modules must be able to transfer its power into the grid in an acceptable way, meaning alternating current (230V) and Hertz must suit the grids requirements. This job is done through a power rectifier which can be obtained on the market in various capacities and made to customer’s requirements.
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