Photovoltaic modules produce electricity directly from sunlight. Grid-tied photovoltaic (PV) systems put electricity directly onto the grid. Stand-alone PV systems are not connected to the grid - electricity produced is usually stored in batteries. Stand-alone systems can easily power lights, computers, printers, mobile phones, answering machines, faxes, modems, sound equipment, TV & videos, slide projectors, small power tools and medical equipment. PV systems are modular - they can be as small as a pocket calculator or as large as the roof of a sports stadium. PV systems will work practically anywhere, in cities and in remote areas, from Newfoundland to Africa.
A description of how grid-tied PV systems work from Solar Century.
View this short film here (3 min.):
To contact the makers of this film, click on Solar Century.
The following books cover most aspects of photovoltaics, from small to large systems. Some free useful downloads in pdf format can be found at the bottom of this page.
PHOTOVOLTAICS FOR PROFESSIONALS - describes the practicalities designing and installing photovoltaic systems, both grid-tied and off-grid - though the emphasis is on grid-tied. Written for electricians, technicians, builders, architects and building engineers. Provides designers and installers with the practical specialist knowledge needed to design and install systems and gives a comprehensive overview of the major photovoltaic market sectors. A must for anyone wanting to get involved in grid-tied PV. Over 100 full colour illustrations, 216 pages.
Download the following PDF for more information:
Photovoltaics for Professionals (pdf)
PLANNING AND INSTALLING PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEMS - A Guide for Installers, Architects and Engineers is the most comprehensive and up-to-date book on grid-tied PV system design and installation currently available. This joint Earthscan / German Solar Energy publication covers all aspects of grid-tied PV and is excellently illustrated throughout. Chapters explain photovoltaic basics, PV modules and other components of grid-tied PV systems, site surveys and shading analysis, planning and sizing grid-tied PV systems, design and simulation software, mounting systems and building integration, installation and operation, economics and environmental impact, marketing and promotion. Approximately 200 full-colour photographs and diagrams. 297 x 100mm, 384 pages. Published December 2007.
PHOTOVOLTAICS DESIGN AND INSTALLATION MANUAL - provides designers and installers with the practical specialist knowledge needed to design and install PV systems (mainly off-grid). Used by Solar Energy International as a training manual. Provides detailed descriptions of PV system components, including PV modules, batteries, controllers and inverters. Includes chapters on sizing photovoltaic systems. 317 pages, illustrated.
SOLAR SYSTEMS FOR AFRICA by Mark Hankins is a must for anyone doing small off-grid/stand-alone systems in Africa or anywhere else in the developing world. No previous knowledge is assumed and it is an excellent introduction for anyone who wishes to install small off-grid/stand-alone systems (mainly lights and small appliances). Well-illustrated, very clearly written. A4. This is out of print right now but demand is high and used copies become available from time to time. If it is not available, SOLAR ELECTRICITY by Simon Roberts, is a good second choice (see below).
SOLAR ELECTRICITY: A PRACTICAL GUIDE TO DESIGNING AND ISTALLING PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEMS by Simon Roberts was written in the 1990s. An good book for anyone starting to get involved in installing off-grid/stand-alone solar lighting systems. Excellent on photovoltaic modules, controllers, batteries and sizing, but a bit out of date regarding available DC lights and inverters. 448 pages, illustrations, and b & w photos. A good second choice if SOLAR SYSTEMS FOR AFRICA by Mark Hankins (see above) is not available.
Course information:
Some informative downloads on PV:
Articles from Home Power magazine on solar installations in Africa:
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PV systems can be large, like this PV roof at the Centre for Alternative Technology in Wales or ...
...portable, like this solar power system used by artist Clare Alison Maynard in East Africa.
“When I was working in East Africa I had light and I was able to power my laptop and mobile phone." - Clare.
Click here to see Clare Alison Maynard's web site