Stand-Alone Photovoltaic Systems

a Handbook of

Recommended Design Practices

This popular handbook presents a consistent method for sizing PV systems. Over 25,000 copies have been distributed worldwide since it was first published in 1988. It was written by systems engineers with hands-on experience with PV system design, installation, and operation. It has been updated several times to stay current with the latest hardware and engineering techniques. This version reflects recent field experience with component reliabilities and system lifetime.

The selection and proper installion of appropriately-sized components directly affects system reliability, lifetime, and initial cost. The designs presented here represent real applications and illustrate some of the trade-offs necessary in system design and component selection. The example systems are adequate for the application, and the initial cost is reasonable. Using more batteries and increasing PV array size may extend the life and reliability of a PV system designed for a specific application but will increase the initial cost. It's a trade-off.

Brand names for components used in the representative systems were available commercially in the United States in 1994 . Use of a specific product does not constitute an endorsement of that product by Sandia National Laboratories or the United States Government, nor indicate that it is the only (or best) option. Each reader is encouraged to compare component performance and cost from known vendors. The number of equipment dealers is increasing throughout the world. Most dealers have experience with system design and installation using compatible components. The PV system vendors in your country are your best information resource.

 Acknowledgment and Disclaimer