Photovoltaics (PV) or Solar Electric

Solar electric or photovoltaic (PV) modules produce electricity from the sun’s light energy. Photovoltaic cells are used in common applications such as wristwatches and calculators, but can also be used to power household appliances, communication and water pumping equipment. PV systems used to power your home have three principle components: the solar or photovoltaic modules, the inverter, and the utility interconnection equipment.

When the system is used as an “Uninterruptible Power Supply” or UPS, it will have a fourth component that includes the batteries. The photovoltaic modules are wired together to form an array that produces direct current (DC) electricity. The DC electricity is converted to alternating current (AC) and conditioned for the utility grid through the inverter. The AC electricity is then used to power household applications, stored in batteries for future use or diverted to the grid through net metering.

How much electricity will your system generate?
Calculate your systems output at:
http://rredc.nrel.gov/solar/codes_algs/PVWATTS/version1/

The Delaware Energy Office is offering grants up to 50% of the installation of photovoltaic technologies. Link to Incentive Programs for instructions and additional incentives available in Philadelphia, New Jersey and beyond. Or for a list of contractors in the region, click here.

Also, check the Green Plains Energy, Inc. Calendar of Events for Workshops, Trade Shows and other events in your area.