Photovoltaic Panel Introduction Tutorial

What will I learn in a photovoltaic (solar panel) course?

You will be able to identify the key components needed in a basic photovoltaic (solar panel) system, such as is found on a house or building, and explain the function of each component in the system.

How do solar panels work?

In order to use solar electricity for practical devices, which require a particular voltage and/or current for their operation, a number of solar cells have to be connected together to form a solar panel, also called a PV module. For large-scale generation of solar electricity solar panels are connected together into a solar array.

How does a photovoltaic system work?

To comprehend the intricate choreography of the photovoltaic effect, one must first grasp the fundamental concepts of solar radiation and semiconductor physics. Solar radiation, the radiant energy emitted by the sun, serves as the primary source of energy for PV systems.

What is the difference between a PV module and a solar panel?

A PV module, is a larger device in which many solar cells are connected, as illustrated in Fig. 17.1 (b). The names PV module and solar module are often used interchangeably. A solar panel, as illustrated in Fig. 17.1 (c), consists of several PV modules that are electrically connected and mounted on a supporting structure.

What is a PV panel?

Panel: A group of modules that is the basic building block of a PV array. Panel is a term used for a group of modules that can be packaged and pre-wired off-site. The size of the panel (or large modules) is often related to how much weight and size two workers can effectively handle on a roof surface, such as you see here.

How do I plan for solar power?

Some calculations are required when planning for solar power, so you'll want to be comfortable with basic math operations (+,-,x,/) and percentages. Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals. This course gives you an introduction to the fundamentals of solar power as it applies to solar panel system installations.