TEAM CONSTRUCT : What exactly are solar photovoltaic panels?
- Description
- Diagram
TEAM CONSTRUCT : Solar voltaic panels are not to be confused with solar thermal panels. These are two very different technologies that perform different functions.
TEAM CONSTRUCT : Thermal solar panels transform the sun's radiation into heat. The infra-red rays are captured by solar panels in which circulates a convector fluid (water + glycol). The heat is carried to a water heater. The hot water produced can be directly used for a shower, a bath or for washing-up.
TEAM CONSTRUCT : The voltaic system transforms the sun's radiation into electricity. The photons are captured by solar panels consisting of silicon cells which, when connected together deliver a direct current. In order to be used in the home or sold to the electricity supply company (EDF), this current must be converted to alternative current.
With a photovoltaic installation, you become an electricity producer, which earns you money.
You receive a certain sum per kWh that you supply to the mains grid.
A photovoltaic installation provides electricity even under overcast conditions.
TEAM CONSTRUCT : With a photovoltaic installation, you become an electricity producer. Any electricity that you don't consume yourself is redistributed to the grid.
You will be paid for each kWh you inject into the mains supply system.
TEAM CONSTRUCT : The electricity needs of a 4-person single family dwelling, i.e. lighting and other uses excluding heating and hot water, represent approximately 2,500 kWh/year.
A 25 m (2.5 kW) photovoltaic system can produce the equivalent of this consumption.
A number of parameters must be taken into account, however. The panels must be angled at 45 facing South.
