Chapter 3

Photovoltaic System Conversion

Lana El Chaar    Electrical Engineering Department, The Petroleum Institute, Abu Dhabi, UAE

Abstract

This chapter discusses the conversion of solar energy into electricity using photovoltaic system. There are two types of PV systems: the grid-connected PV system and the stand-alone PV system. Solar cells are composed of various semiconductor materials that become electrically conductive when supplied with heat or light. The voltage generated by the array depends primarily on the design and materials of the cell, whereas the electric current depends primarily on the incident solar irradiance and the cell area. Photovoltaic technology is used to produce electricity in areas where power lines do not reach. ...

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