Photovoltaic Systems Research & Development
SNL Logo
About PV ----> Modules, Arrays, and Systems ---->Introduction

 

Modules, Arrays, and Systems

The PV cell is the basic unit in a PV system. An individual PV cell typically produces between 1 and 2 W, hardly enough power for the great majority of applications. But you can increase the power by connecting cells together to form larger units called modules. Modules, in turn, can be connected to form even larger units known as arrays, which can be
interconnected for more power, and so on. In this way, you can build a PV system to meet almost any power need, no matter
how small or great.

Modules or arrays, by themselves, do not constitute a PV system. You must also have structures on which to put them and point them toward the sun, and components that take the direct-current (dc) electricity produced by the modules or arrays and condition the electricity so that it may be utilized in the application. These structures and components are referred to as the balance-of-system (BOS).

In this chapter we discuss collectors (modules and arrays) and balanceof-systems, respectively. Further, we categorize the collectors into two general types: flat plate and concentrator.

The basic photovoltaic unit or cell typically produces only a small amount of power. To produce more power, cells can be interconnected to form modules, which can be connected into arrays to produce more power, and so on. Because of this modularity, photovoltaic systems may be designed to meet any electrical requirement, no matter how large or how small.

 

©2002 Sandia National Laboratories|Site Contact|Privacy and Security|PV Disclaimer | Contact Us