Astenik Solar: Innovative Renewable Energy Systems | Products | Solar Panels | Solar PV Manufacturer | Ontario Canada





		PV Systems
		PV Modules
		PV Inverters
		PV Mounting


About Solar PV System

	Generally there three typical types of Solar PV systems in the market. They are:

	Solar PV systems - Grid Tied

	Solar PV systems - Grid Tied with Battery Backup

	Solar PV systems - Off Grid

	When you are choosing solar panel systems, there are a number of factors that will go into your decision. These are the Size, Durability and Type, they also are inter-related:

	The size of the panel generally determines the wattage it will put out at maximum. The wattage is also determined by the kind of solar cells used, whether they are single crystal, polycrystalline or thin film. If you'd like, you can learn more about types of solar cells. A 50 watt panel will be about two square feet, while a 190 watt panel will be about eight.

	Durability has a lot to do with the materials. different types of solar panels have different durability. Frames also make a difference in durability of your solar panels. Today, most PV panels are framed in aluminum, which is sturdy and light.

	The type of solar module you choose is based on what you will be using it for. For residential, commerical or other stationary uses, the type of module will be different than the type that is best suited for portable uses such as boating or camping.



Photovoltaic Systems Grid Inter-tied

	Buying a home solar electricity system that is inter-tied with the electrical grid is becoming increasingly viable and popular due to increasing government financing incentives and the rising price of fossil fuels, such as natural gas.

	A grid interconnected solar power system consists of a solar photovoltaic panel or array of panels added onto the regular source of electricity provided by your utility company. The use of solar energy can reduce your reliance on other forms of energy to any degree you choose, depending on how big a system you purchase. Grid-inter-tied solar energy now makes up over 70% of the world market for solar photovoltaic.

	Components of a solar energy system that is tied to the grid

	The following elements are found in grid inter-tied solar PV systems: Solar panels collect the sun's light and convert it into an electrical current. Solar panels are supported by solar mounts (or racks). An inverter is an important part of many energy systems. It converts direct current (DC) energy into more widely usable alternating current (AC) energy. Wiring to the house's "normal electricity." By this, we mean the house's breaker panel and beyond that, what electricians call your "load": all electricity you use.

	Some of the more mundane but of course necessary technical elements of your system will include: An array DC disconnect: a device that allows you to halt the flow of electricity from the panel array, during times of system maintenance. This disconnect is required as part of the final electrical inspection of your system An AC breaker panel, the same as you find in any household. A Kilowatt Hour Meter is used by your local utility to calculate your electricity bill. Utility Disconnect is required by the local utility to disconnect the system when the utility is doing maintenance on the electrical utility grid.

Photovoltaic Systems (Grid Inter-tied with Battery Backup)

	A solar energy system with a battery backup is ideal for people who (for one reason or another) cannot rely on the grid. You may want to have this kind of solar energy system: if you absolutely rely on power for your business (e.g. auto mechanic, car wash) or if you live in an area where power can be interrupted by weather (e.g. Florida).

	Components of a solar electric system with battery backup

	A grid-inter-tied solar electric system with battery backup will include these elements: Solar panels collect the sun's light and convert it into an electrical current. Solar panels are supported by solar mounts (or racks). An array DC Disconnect is a device that allows you to halt the flow of electricity from the panel array, during times of system maintenance. An inverter is an important part of many energy systems. It converts direct current (DC) energy into more widely usable alternating current (AC) energy. The Charge Controller protects your battery (battery bank) from being overcharged. The system meter measures how full your battery is, how much electricity the panels are producing and how much electricity you are using. Batteries store energy for later use. To learn more see our page on batteries. A main DC disconnect is found in any battery-based system, between the battery and the inverter. This is a large breaker to allow easy shut off, for battery service. The AC breaker panel is the same as you would find in any household. Wiring to the house's "normal electricity." By this, we mean the house's breaker panel and beyond that, what electricians call your "load": all electricity you use. A Kilowatt Hour Meter is used by your local utility to calculate your electricity bill.

Off Grid Photovoltaic Systems



	Components of an off grid solar energy system:

	The following are elements of an off grid, independent solar electricity system: Solar panels collect sunlight and convert it into an electrical current. Solar panels are supported by solar mounts (or racks). Backup generator. These are required for emergencies and to cover your energy when you get weeks without sunshine. An inverter is an important part of many energy systems. It converts direct current (DC) energy into more widely usable alternating current (AC) energy. Batteries store energy for later use. Wiring to the house's "normal electricity." By this, we mean the house's breaker panel and beyond that, what electricians call your "load." A system meter measures how full your battery is, how much electricity the panels are producing and how much electricity you are using. Smaller elements: A main DC disconnect is found in any battery-based system, between the battery and the inverter. This is a large breaker to allow easy shut off, for battery service. Charge Controller protects your battery (battery bank) from being overcharged. Rectifier. These could be considered the opposite of an inverter: they change AC to DC. If your solar PV array is getting lots of sunlight, a portion of its generated power can be used to charge the battery. The AC breaker panel is the same as you would find in any household.