Photovoltaic (PV) Systems
producing Solar Electricity
PV systems can be divided into grid-connected and stand-alone systemsClick here for information on grid tied systems
Click here for information on stand-alone systems
Solar photovoltaic cells (PV) convert light into electrical energy. The amount of electrical energy produced depends on the amount of light that falls on the PV material. PV requires only daylight, not direct sunlight, to generate electricity although the output from a PV cell will vary with the intensity of the light.
Solar PV cells come in all shapes and sizes and can be connected to the national grid or simply to a battery bank. In any event, they will significantly reduce the running costs of any building in which they are fitted..
Solar PV cells generally come in the form of rectangular panels of variable sizes, or in the form of individual solar slates, that are installed on the roof in very much the same way as roof tiles.
Both the rectangular solar roof panels, and the solar slates, are invariably fitted in multiples and they can be fitted in any configuration. For example, they can be fitted in portrait format, landscape format, in the shape of a T (to avoid roof lights), or in a random format.
The solar tiles are always integrated into the roof but the rectangular solar panels can either be integrated into the roof or fitted on mounting brackets above the roof. The chosen installation method has no effect on the output of the panels.
Ecofirst supplies and fits high quality PV modules in a wide variety of shapes and sizes. We can also supply PV modules that integrate seamlessly with our solar water heating modules as they are constructed within the same rectangular frame system. A great solution if you are planning to fit both sustainable technologies.
The orientation of the Photovoltaic (PV) generator results in different radiation levels. The optimal position of a PV generator for total annual gain faces south with an inclination of approximately 30 to 40o. If the PV generator is not located in the optimum position there will be smaller annual energy yields due to reduced radiation.
Which Solar Electricity System?
Ecofirst will help you select the right system for your project. Furthermore, Ecofirst will ensure that it is professionally installed and backed up by Ecofirst’s comprehensive warranty. All our systems can be seen at our show room and installer training centre in Somerset.
Download our information leaflet.