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Solar PV System Components
Solar PV panels (Solar Photovoltaic Panels)convert photons of light into electrical energy using a semi-conductor material; the most common being crystalline silicon. When daylight shines onto a solar cell, electrons are released causing electricity to flow. The amount of solar electricity produced depends on the intensity of the light received by the solar cell.
Tilt angle of solar PV panels
Solar PV panels will operate at maximum efficiency if they are orientated towards the south. The most efficient tilt angle can be calculated by subtracting 20° from the geographic latitude. Therefore, for an installation in London (latitude of 51°) the optimum tilt is (51 minus 20) 31° from the horizontal.
Solar PV panels
A solar PV panel installation causes minimum disruption to the home and systems can be retrofitted. A typical silicon cell is quite small, approx 100mm x 100mm square. Solar cells produce electricity at low voltage but when more power is required a number of cells can be connected together to create photovoltaic modules, or solar PV panels.
Solar PV panels that are connected together in series are often referred to as an ‘array’. A grouping of solar PV panels can be fitted in different configurations depending on the local conditions e.g. to follow the shape of a roof or to avoid a roof light. Solar PV panels usually have a backing sheet that is opaque but the backing can be transparent, allowing some light through and creating a dappled effect.
Sharp
As a solar specialist with 50 years’ experience in photovoltaics (PV), Sharp makes significant contributions to groundbreaking progress in solar technology. Sharp photovoltaic modules in the ND series are designed for applications with high power requirements. These quality polycrystalline modules produce a continuous, reliable yield, even under demanding operational conditions. All Sharp ND series modules offer system integration which is optimal both technically and economically, and are suitable for installations in on and off-grid PV systems.
Made in the UK
One of Sharp’s most technically advanced solar module manufacturing plants is located in Wrexham: our first European plant is a state-of-the-art facility. It has been manufacturing solar modules since 2004, and today it assembles highly advanced solar modules. These are not only supplied to the UK market but exported throughout continental Europe, where there is a growing demand for the efficient solar technology offered by Sharp. Sharp have made massive investments at their Wrexham plant and will continue to do so. Capacity has recently reached 220 MW and the number of panels produced by our 780 employees has passed the three million mark.
Schüco
PV module of the highest quality. Schüco MPE modules in the PS 05 series are distinguished by polycrystalline solar cells with high cell efficiency. Maximum outputs are achieved in this way. The output tolerance of +5/-0% guarantees the best quality and ensures increased output thanks to the guaranteed rated output.
The module frame made from torsion-proof, anodised aluminium meets the highest standards in terms of stability and corrosion resistance. Two cross struts in the frame on the reverse increase the load bearing capacity of the module.
Schüco MPE modules in the PS 05 series can be installed with components from the Schüco PV Light mounting system. Schüco MPE modules in the PS 05 series have a connecting box on the reverse of the module that is fitted with three bypass diode bridges. This prevents individual solar cells from overheating (hot-spot effect). This ensures the reliable operation of the whole system, from module fields to inverters. The connecting box, solar cables and plug systems are of the highest quality and are also certified as individual components.
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