A photovoltaic (PV) power generation system is a system that directly converts light energy into electrical energy without requiring a thermal process. A PV system typically consists of a photovoltaic array, battery bank, battery controller, inverter, AC distribution cabinet, and solar tracking control system. Its main components are solar cells, batteries, controller, and inverter. Its characteristics include high reliability, long service life, no environmental pollution, and the ability to generate electricity independently or connect to the grid.
Currently, photovoltaic power generation systems are divided into stand-alone photovoltaic power generation systems, grid-connected photovoltaic power generation systems, and distributed photovoltaic power generation systems.
1. Independent photovoltaic power generation system
Stand-alone photovoltaic (PV) power generation, also known as off-grid PV power generation, mainly consists of solar cell modules, controllers, and batteries. If it is to supply power to AC loads, an AC inverter is also required. Stand-alone PV power stations include village power supply systems in remote areas, solar household power systems, communication signal power supplies, cathodic protection, solar streetlights, and other PV power generation systems that can operate independently and are equipped with batteries.
2. Grid-connected photovoltaic power generation system
Grid-connected photovoltaic (PV) power generation involves converting the direct current (DC) generated by solar panels into alternating current (AC) that meets the requirements of the municipal power grid via a grid-connected inverter before directly connecting to the public power grid. Grid-connected PV systems can be divided into those with and without batteries. Systems with batteries offer dispatchability, allowing them to be connected to or disconnected from the grid as needed, and also serve as backup power, providing emergency power in case of grid outages. These systems are often installed in residential buildings. Systems without batteries lack dispatchability and backup power capabilities and are typically installed in larger systems.
3. Distributed photovoltaic power generation system
Distributed photovoltaic (PV) power generation systems can be further divided into centralized large-scale grid-connected PV power plants and distributed PV systems. The main characteristic of centralized large-scale grid-connected PV power plants is their ability to directly transmit the generated electricity to the grid, which then distributes it to users. These plants require large investments, have long construction periods, and occupy large areas. Distributed PV systems, on the other hand, offer advantages such as lower investment, faster construction, smaller footprint, and stronger policy support.
