What is Photovoltaic (PV)?

The PV effect is the direct conversion of solar energy into electricity. This process does not generate heat like solar domestic hot water or solar pool heating systems do. It also differs from the process used in solar thermal power plants, where concentrated solar energy is used to produce steam that activates a turbine connected to an electric generator. PV power systems do not have any moving parts. They are reliable, require little maintenance and generate no noise or pollutants. PV systems are modular - the building blocks (modules) come in a wide range of power capabilities, from a fraction of a watt (e.g. solar watches and pocket calculators) to more than 300 W. Modules can be connected to achieve the power that your application requires.

PV systems are classified into two, off-grid and on-grid. The off-grid system operates independently from the local electricity company, while the on-grid system is usually connected to the local electricity supplier. Customers with on-grid PV systems can usually sell the excess electricity generated by their solar system to the local electric company.