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Applications General Home Consumer Business Generators Stand Alone Battery Hybrid
Net Metering Utility Power Utility Grid
A typical PV system consists of solar cells connected electrically to form a module that can measure two to four feet wide and four to six feet long. Some solar modules look just like traditional roof shingles. Many interconnected PV modules are called an array. An array is often mounted on the roof of a building, facing south at an angle, so that the modules receive the maximum amount of sunlight. Other typical features of a PV system are an inverter, which changes your electricity from direct current to alternating current so it can be used by most standard appliances and computers. B atteries may also be added for emergency backup in the event of power outages or in cases where your PV system is not connected to utility power lines.
Today's PV systems can be blended into virtually every conceivable structure for homes or commercial buildings. You can find PV being used outdoors for security lighting in gardens, parking lots, and bus shelters. These PV structures can also serve as cover that generates power at the same time. Inside family homes or high-rise office buildings, PV can be used for the operation of all electrical systems, including lights, cooling systems, and appliances. PV systems should be sized according to your electricity needs and budget.
In general, PV systems in buildings are sized such that the PV system fully or partially meets the building loads. Those loads will be easier to meet when the building is energy efficient. If your home or building is already connected to a power line, you may be able to get credit for your "net" electricity — the amount of power consumed from the utility minus the power generated by your PV system — through an arrangement with your local electric utility company called "net metering". If your electricity consumption exceeds generation by your PV system, you simply obtain the needed electricity from your utility, as usual.
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