| While different photovoltaic systems operate on the | | | | example, when power demand is low, the PCU can |
| same principles, they have different configurations. | | | | cut back or shut off the flow of power from the CPV |
| There are two basic types: one is connected to an | | | | solar array and open it up when demand rises. |
| existing power grid and the other is an independent, | | | | By the way, that "CPV" stands for "concentrated |
| stand-alone system. | | | | photovoltaic." When it comes to such systems that are |
| On The Grid | | | | part of a larger grid, it is necessary to get more "bang |
| Photovoltaic systems that are connected to an | | | | for the buck" by literally concentrating sunlight. |
| existing grid are designed to supplement traditional gas, | | | | Concentrated photovoltaic technology is the science |
| coal and oil-fired power plants. This requires a | | | | of just that; it works through the use of mirrors that |
| converter, since a photovoltaic panel produces direct | | | | reflect a large amount of sunlight onto a single panel. |
| current, and the U.S. power grid runs on alternating | | | | Use of concentrated photovoltaic technology has |
| current. In case you aren't sure of the difference, direct | | | | boosted the efficiency of CPV solar panels to nearly |
| current, or DC, is electric energy that flows in one | | | | 40%. |
| direction only. A common example is the household | | | | Off The Grid |
| battery - which is why battery-operated devices such | | | | A standalone system is the type you might use for |
| as CD players, small electric keyboards and some | | | | your own home, though other sources - including wind, |
| hand-held games require a special adapter (technically | | | | an engine-driven generator or even the local grid - is |
| known as a rectifier) when plugged into the wall. | | | | usually required. Furthermore, a standalone system |
| Alternating current, or AC on the other hand, changes | | | | only operates during the daylight hours, which means it |
| direction. This is the kind of power that comes out of | | | | requires some type of storage device. |
| your wall socket and powers most of your plug-in | | | | Beyond this, a standalone photovoltaic system is most |
| appliances. | | | | useful for running air conditioning, fans, and pumps for |
| When it comes to integrating CPV solar power | | | | solar thermal water heating. |
| systems into a commercial grid, an inverter, or power | | | | Both types of systems help meet particular needs, and |
| conditioning unit (PCU) is required to turn DC into AC. | | | | as the technology advances and costs continue to |
| This device also governs the flow of power from the | | | | decline, it's likely that we'll see an increase in solar |
| photovoltaic array to the grid and vice-versa. So, for | | | | energy implementation worldwide. |