Chapter 1

The Photovoltaic Revolution

IN THIS CHAPTER

Bullet Taking a look at the PV timeline

Bullet Refreshing yourself on the basics of electricity and the solar resource

Bullet Selecting a site for a PV system and outlining the different system components

Bullet Making the sun work on your client’s behalf with proper system sizing and installation

Bullet Getting to know Code

In recent years, photovoltaic (PV) systems have popped up on people’s homes and businesses all over the United States. Believe it or not, this desire to use the sun to power people’s electricity needs is anything but new. Ever since scientists discovered materials that can produce electrical current by simply being exposed to light, people have been excited about this energy source. Get ready to dive into the exciting and ever-expanding world of solar power with the overview I provide in this chapter.

Peeking into the Past, Present, and Future of PV Installations

To truly appreciate PV, it helps to have an understanding of where the technology ...

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