What is a Photovoltaic (PV) System?
The major geponent of a PV system is the photovoltaic solar panel, hence the acronym PV. Any numbers of solar panels are connected together to geplete a solar array. The solar array can have varying output wattage depending on the size and output of each panel, and the number of panels used in the array. All of these variables can be customized to meet the homeowners specific needs, taking in to consideration his or her consumption needs, the percentage of the utility bill they want to replace and the amount of southern exposed roof space or other suitable area available. In order to make the DC power produced by the PV array usable in your home, a device called an inverter is required to convert the DC (direct current) to AC (alternating current) which is used by all the appliances and lighting in your home now. The Inverter also ties your system to the utility gepany, and regulates when and how power is drawn from or sold back to the utility grid. In some cases homeowners use DC lighting fixtures and buy new DC powered appliances, but this is not usually practical for the average homeowner. Inverters are one of the most expensive geponents of the system and have a predetermined capacity, so the PV system must be designed with this in mind to create the most economical investment.
Is your home suitable for a PV System?
The most optimal home is one with a major portion of the roofline having a southern exposure, although roofs with a south-westerly or south-easterly exposure may also be acceptable. If your roof is not suitable then the PV Array can be mounted on a patio cover, pool house, on a pole, or on a ground rack. The most important requirement is that the panels have unobstructed exposure to the sun all through the year.
Grid Tied System , Utility Rules, Interconnection Agreement
What is an Interconnection Agreement? When connecting your PV system to the utility grid your power gepany may require you to sign an Interconnection Agreement. This is a contract between you and the power gepany.
Net Metering
Net Metering is a program with the power gepany that accepts power from your PV system allowing your meter to spin backwards when it produces a surplus of electricity, and forwards when your house has a demand for electricity. This in effect will cancel out many of the kilowatt-hours charged to your bill significantly reducing it. If your system produces more than used in any given month you will be credited for the excess on the next bill. There is a great incentive here to purchase and have your system installed as soon as possible. Many Energy gepanies are offering this program on a first gee first serve basis. So the moral of the story is if you can afford it, or get a loan for it do it now.
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