The energy produced by the sun is an invaluable natural resource because it can generate enough electricity for human consumption. To achieve this, there are various solar energy systems that can keep enough battery power for a computer or any other device in the home. Don’t miss our blog or specialize with a Masters’s in Photovoltaic Solar Energy.
What is a solar system?
Photovoltaic systems are the entire process and combined mechanism of certain electrical components that convert solar energy into usable electrical energy. The purpose of this is to make any type of equipment in the home, office, or industry work. To generate this type of renewable energy, the basic electrical components of a solar system are solar panels, inverters, load centers, and two-way meters.
Operability of solar systems
Photovoltaic systems operate due to solar panels, where solar energy is converted into direct current electricity due to the photoelectric effect. If it is not converted to AC, it cannot be universal. At this point, the inverter, which is an essential part of the system, changes the current to adapt it to any type of installation. Later, depending on the type of energy system, you can have charge controllers that regulate energy usage and battery drawers for easy storage. Another important element is the load center, as it is often the connection point for solar energy. Therefore, when the system is interconnected with the grid, the two-way meter records the energy returned to the utility network.
Types of Solar Power Systems
According to people’s needs, photovoltaic systems vary according to the type of capacity or the specifications indicated. For this purpose, there are two types of solar energy systems: isolated systems or interconnected systems.
Isolation system
In both systems, photovoltaic solar panel are used to convert solar energy into electricity. However, in an isolated system, the energy produced is stored in the battery pack. This means that the system is completely self-contained and you can use it at night and on cloudy days as you save energy. These types of systems are very common in places that the grid cannot reach.
Interconnected system
Interconnected systems are known this way because all the energy generated by the solar panels is injected directly into the distribution network in your area. These systems can be cheaper because they don’t require a battery pack, which is sometimes the most expensive piece of equipment in a system. Typically, the use of interconnection systems is based on a contract with your electric utility that verifies that your entire system is in compliance with regulations. This is so because the energy you generate is sent to the national grid, so it is important to guarantee its quality. Only the normal operation of the solar energy system with the participation of a professional team can generate solar energy safely and efficiently. All for sustainable use and protection of the environment.
International Master’s Degree in Solar Photovoltaic Energy
Study the Master in Photovoltaic Solar Energy:
The Master’s Degree in Photovoltaic Solar Energy will allow you to gain knowledge about harnessing the sun to generate energy, the components of photovoltaic solar energy systems, and the configuration of photovoltaic energy applications. In addition to understanding the issue of environmental impact.
Learning Method: Online
Our school approach to learning allows you to combine your studies with your work and personal life, making it easy to learn. After confirming your registration, you will receive an email with your personal password to access the virtual classroom where you will receive all the content and materials for your master’s degree. The student has a tutor who advises him throughout the course. On the other hand, students are responsible for scheduling time dedicated to the master’s degree and taking exams when they are ready.
Get a degree
Students who pass the Master’s Assessment Test will receive the “International Master’s Degree in Solar Photovoltaic Energy” degree certificate:
- A valid degree at an international level, accredited by the highest training institutions in Spain and Europe.
- It has the seal of the Spanish Quality Association.
- It includes Hague Hague certification, through which the authenticity and validity of the diploma is recognized and guaranteed in any country that signs the agreement.
How does an off-grid photovoltaic system work?
In the operation of autonomous systems such as off-grid, no contact with the grid is required. Therefore, photovoltaic systems provide energy for households and electronic devices directly at specific locations. In fact, off-grid systems can be used to generate electricity in remote areas, because for many, this is the most economical and easiest way to generate electricity due to the difficult supply in the area. In this way, the energy produced is immediately stored in the battery and guaranteed to be supplied in the absence of sunlight. Learn more here about home backup batteries and how to interpret their specs to help you in your research.
How does a hybrid PV system work?
Solar hybrid PV systems operate through a grid connection but are also connected directly to the battery. Therefore, both inverters are powered by the bank and operate independently, while one of the generation types (on-grid and off-grid) is disconnected.
In this sense, if there is a voltage drop in the grid, the off-grid system will act in the supply of the load to maintain energy operation in the property.
How does solar thermal work?
Thermal solar works by capturing the heat of the sun from the solar panels and heating the liquid present in the pipes, which is fed to the solar thermal accumulator responsible for heating the water for showers etc. Solar thermal energy is used in thermal power plants in many ways, such as the production of bagasse and chaff. It operates as follows:
- Sunlight is captured by solar panels and heats the liquid inside;
- The liquid is delivered to the solar battery;
- The water stored in the solar battery is heated and distributed for use.
To learn more about how solar power systems work, navigate to our ‘solar power 101‘ section for comprehensive information.
