Civil Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
FIGURE 3-1
Photovoltaic module in sunlight generates direct current electricity. (Source: Solarex Corpora-
tion, Frederick, Md. With permission.)
Major advantages of the photovoltaic power are as follows:
•
short lead time to design, install, and start up a new plant.
•
highly modular, hence, the plant economy is not a strong function
of size.
•
power output matches very well with peak load demands.
•
static structure, no moving parts, hence, no noise.
•
high power capability per unit of weight.
•
longer life with little maintenance because of no moving parts.
•
highly mobile and portable because of light weight.
Almost 40 percent of the pv modules installed in the world are produced
in the United States of America. Approximately 40 MW modules were pro-
duced in the U.S.A. in 1995, out of which 19 MW were produced by Siemens
Solar Industries and 9.5 MW by Solarex Corporation.
