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Chapter 16: Problem 5

How does a PV system work, and what are some present applications of such cells?

Short Answer

Expert verified
A Photovoltaic (PV) system works by converting sunlight into electricity with the help of PV cells made from semiconductor materials. It includes components like solar inverters, battery for energy storage and a charge controller. Its applications range from small-scale uses like solar powered calculators to large-scale power plants, providing electricity to remote locations and residential rooftop installations.

Step by step solution

01

Principle of Operation

A photovoltaic (PV) system works by converting sunlight directly into electricity. This is achieved by a photovoltaic cell, also known as a solar cell, which is made from semiconductor materials. When sunlight strikes the cell, a certain amount of it is absorbed by the semiconductor material causing the electrons in the material to get excited and generate direct current (DC) electricity.
02

System Components

A PV system consists of several components: PV cells that convert sunlight into direct current (DC) electricity, one or several solar inverter(s) which convert the generated DC into alternating current (AC) which can be used for everyday appliances, a battery for energy storage and a charge controller to manage the power into and out of the battery.
03

Current Applications

PV systems have broad applications nowadays. They are employed in various sectors due to their greener and renewable approach to power generation. Their use ranges from small scale applications like solar powered calculators and roadside emergency telephones to large scale applications like power plants. They are also commonly used to provide electricity in remote locations where there is no access to the grid such as satellites and space stations. Another important application is in the residential area where they are used as rooftop installations to offset a part of the household's electricity bill.

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