Solar PV (Photovoltaics)

Solar PV – The Facts 

The solar PV (photovoltaic) cell is the building block of the PV panel. This direct current power is then safely converted into utility grade alternating current (AC) power for typical household or commercial use. This conversion is done by a power inverter.

Solar photovoltaic panels are assembled into arrays of panels which can be appropriately sized to meet a variety of household or commercial needs. PV systems can easily be integrated into new and existing construction. The most critical site feature for this type of system is and unobstructed south facing roof.

Today the most common type of photovoltaic installation is a direct grid-interconnect system. A direct grid-interconnect system does not have a battery back up component. While this type of system will operate more efficiently and require less maintenance in the long term, in the event of a power outage it will not provide electricity. If you are in an area where power outages are common you may want to consider adding a battery back up component, instead of buying a generator.

The Decreasing Cost of Solar PV

Massachusetts in particular is making the cost of using and installing solar PV more and more affordable.  In fact, you can now sell the renewable energy credits you accrue by producing clean, renewable energy.  See our SRECs Energy Credits page for more information and call us for a free consultation.

Clean Energy Design has a decade of experience installing sophisticated solar PV (photovoltaic) energy systems and PV solar panels on churches, schools, commercial buildings and residences throughout New England.