Photovoltaics is the technique of using solar energy for electrical energy within a home or building. This photovoltaic effect, generated from light power, was discovered by Alexander Becquerel in 1839.
When photons from the light hit a photovoltaic cell, the electrons migrate and an electrical direct current is produced between the side turned towards the light and the side turned away from the light. Electrical current flows as soon as the circuit is closed.
A power inverter is needed to transform this direct current power into the alternating current power used in grids in order to be able to put this electricity into the electrical grid.
Why Go With Photovoltaic Solar?
- Solar power is available everywhere in New Zealand – the sun! NZ has a large amount of sunshine hours compared to many other countries.
- Photovoltaics is a modern way of generating electricity: regenerative and economical as well as clean and green.
- The input of solar power in the public network produces zero emissions and is therefore an beneficial for the environment.
- Solar power can be produced on almost all roofs through photovoltaic panels.
- Apart from the environmental benefits, solar is a profitable and money saving investment.
- It is very possible to foresee the benefits of a solar system, making investment very low risk.
- Easy to install. The installation of a typical 5 kWp solar panel system can be completed in a day. After installation, maintenance is hardly needed.
- Solar power has the highest long term potential of all renewable energy sources available.
