How PV Works

How PV Works

How does a PV cell generate electricity?

Photovoltaic (PV) cells convert sunlight directly into electricity without creating any air or water pollution.

PV cells are made of semiconductor material e.g. silicon.  When light enters the cell, some of the photons from the light are absorbed by the semiconductor atoms, freeing electrons to flow through an external circuit and back into the cell. This flow of electrons is electric current.

Off Grid PV Systems

An off grid PV system, sometimes called a stand-alone system, is designed to provide electricity to a home or business without drawing on supplemental power from the electrical utility. These systems consist of a PV array, control and safety equipment, a battery bank, and usually an inverter.

How does the weather affect generation?

Solar PV does not require direct sunlight to produce energy. It does however require light not heat. This means even on an overcast cool day your PV system will generate energy. The output generated from your PV system will fluctuate throughout the year and will be most effective during the summer season.

How do I use my self produced energy?

The whole process is fully automated. Once the energy from a PV System is converted into AC electricity by the inverter it is then used to power your applicances, sockets and lights. Any excess power which is generated is automatically sold back to the national grid.

What do BuyPVDirect offer for Home Owners?

Although we specialise in selling wholesale PV Systems to installers and other PV companies we do offer some home installation kits which you can purchase and arrange your own installation. These kits come with full installation guides for you to follow to get your preferred electrician to install. Please see our PV Installation Guide