Solar Power System

Solar power system also known as solar electricity, is the conversion of energy from sunlight into electricity, either directly using photovoltaics (PV) or indirectly using concentrated solar power. Solar panels use the photovoltaic effect to convert light into an electric current. Concentrated solar power systems use lenses or mirrors and solar tracking systems to focus a large area of sunlight to a hot spot, often to drive a steam turbine.

Photovoltaics (PV) were initially solely used as a source of electricity for small and medium-sized applications, from the calculator powered by a single solar cell to remote homes powered by an off-grid rooftop PV system. Commercial concentrated solar power plants were first developed in the 1980s. Since then, as the cost of solar panels has fallen, grid-connected solar PV systems’ capacity and production has doubled about every three years. Three-quarters of new generation capacity is solar, with both millions of rooftop installations and gigawatt-scale photovoltaic power stations continuing to be built.

In 2023, solar power generated 5.5% (1,631 TWh) of global electricity and over 1% of primary energy, adding twice as much new electricity as coal. Along with onshore wind power, utility-scale solar is the source with the cheapest levelized cost of electricity for new installations in most countries. As of 2023, 33 countries generated more than a tenth of their electricity from solar, with China making up more than half of solar growth. Almost half the solar power installed in 2022 was mounted on rooftops.

Types of Solar Power Systems

Solar PV systems are primarily divided into 3 types: on-grid, off-grid, and hybrid.

On-Grid System

On-grid systems, also known as grid-tied systems, are the most common choice for residential and commercial solar system setups. These solar panel systems are directly connected to the electrical grid, and they work in tandem with your local utility company to provide power for your residence.

Oftentimes, on-grid systems go hand in hand with net metering programs. This means that any surplus energy your solar system generated can be fed back into the grid, earning credit for system owners and potentially saving their utility bills. This makes on-grid systems an affordable solar system that is favored by many house owners.

Off-Grid System

Off-grid solar energy systems, also known as stand-alone solar battery systems, are designed for areas without access to the electrical grid or for individuals seeking complete energy independence. Compared to on-grid solar systems, they are completely disconnected from the grid. As a result, these systems need batteries to store excess energy generated during the day for use at night or during cloudy periods.

Hybrid System

Hybrid solar systems combine the features of both on-grid and off-grid systems. On the one hand, hybrids have battery storage to store excess energy just like off-grid systems. On the other hand, these systems are also connected to the grid, allowing you to take advantage of net metering and ensuring a continuous power supply even when solar production is low. Thus, hybrid systems provide the flexibility of off-grid setups with the security of grid connectivity, making them a smart choice for those who want to reduce energy costs while having a reliable backup during outages.

Components of a Solar Power System

No matter what type you choose, solar system packages will generally include the following basic items to ensure proper functioning:

Solar Panels

Solar panels, or photovoltaic (PV) modules, are the heart of the system. These panels are made up of multiple solar cells, which capture sunlight and convert it into direct current (DC) electricity through a process called the photovoltaic effect.

Solar Inverter

The solar inverter plays a crucial role in the system. It converts the DC electricity generated by the solar panels into alternating current (AC), which is the standard form of electricity used in homes and businesses. Inverters ensure the electricity is compatible with your existing electrical systems.

Solar Batteries

Solar batteries, while optional in some systems, are vital for storing excess electricity produced during the day. These batteries store energy for use during the night or on cloudy days when solar production is reduced. They provide energy independence and continuity.

Distribution Board

The distribution board, also known as an electrical panel or breaker box, is where the solar-generated electricity is integrated into your home’s electrical system. It ensures that solar electricity is properly distributed to your appliances and devices. It can also serve as a point of connection to the electrical grid for on-grid systems.

How to Choose the Right Size of Solar Power System?

Solar backup systems come in a variety of sizes, from 1 kW and 2 kW solar systems to 8 kW or 10 kW solar systems and even 30 kW and 50 kW solar systems. Choosing the right size for your system ensures that your daily energy needs are covered in full while not incurring exorbitant maintenance costs. Here’s how to make an informed decision:

1. Calculate Daily Energy Usage: Begin by examining your utility bills to determine your monthly energy consumption in kilowatt-hours (kWh). Collect data over several months for a more accurate average. Divide the total kWh by the number of days to obtain your daily energy usage. This figure is essential for sizing your solar system.

2. Identify Peak Sun Hours: Consider the peak sun hours in your location. These are the hours when your solar panels can absorb and convert sunlight into electricity. Peak sun hours vary depending on your geographical location and the time of year. Refer to the relevant information from the local government or weather report authorities.

3. Determine Solar Panel Efficiency: Solar panels come in various sizes and efficiencies, generating different wattages. You must account for these differences in your calculations. Start by converting your daily kWh usage into watts by multiplying it by 1,000.

4. Calculate System Size: Divide the watt-hours by your peak sun hours. This calculation will give you the total number of watts your solar system should generate daily. Divide this wattage by the wattage per panel to determine how many panels are needed to meet your daily energy needs.

For example: Suppose your house uses 30 kWh daily, and you aim to offset 50% of your energy consumption with your solar system. That means your solar system kit should generate 15 kWh of power each day. Now, if your location receives 5 hours of sunshine daily, you should have a 15 kWh/5 h=3 kW solar system at the minimum to cover your energy goal. A 3 kVA solar system is equivalent to 15 200 W solar panels or 30 100 W panels.

Much more low-carbon power is needed for electrification and to limit climate change. The International Energy Agency said in 2022 that more effort was needed for grid integration and the mitigation of policy, regulation and financing challenges. Nevertheless solar may greatly cut the cost of energy.