17.3
Hybrid systems combine PV modules with a complementary method of electricity
generation such as a diesel, gas or wind generator. A schematic representation of a hybrid
system is shown in Figure 17.5. In order to optimize the different methods of electricity
generation, hybrid systems typically require more sophisticated controls than stand-alone
or grid-connected PV systems. For example, in the case of a PV/diesel system, the diesel
engine must be started when the battery reaches a given discharge level, and stopped when
the battery reaches an adequate charging state. The backup generator can be used to
recharge batteries only or to supply the load as well.
Figure 17.5: Schematic representation of a hybrid PV system that has a diesel generator as an alternative electricity
source.
Components of a PV system
Due to the limited size of the solar cell it only delivers a limited amount of power under
fixed current voltage conditions that are not practical for most applications. In order to use
solar electricity for practical devices which require a particular voltage and/or current for
their operation, a number of solar cells have to be connected together to form a solar
module, also called a PV module. For large-scale generation of solar electricity, solar
panels are connected together into a PV array.
Hybrid systems combine PV modules with a complementary method of electricity
generation such as a diesel, gas or wind generator. A schematic representation of a hybrid
system is shown in Figure 17.5. In order to optimize the different methods of electricity
generation, hybrid systems typically require more sophisticated controls than stand-alone
or grid-connected PV systems. For example, in the case of a PV/diesel system, the diesel
engine must be started when the battery reaches a given discharge level, and stopped when
the battery reaches an adequate charging state. The backup generator can be used to
recharge batteries only or to supply the load as well.
Figure 17.5: Schematic representation of a hybrid PV system that has a diesel generator as an alternative electricity
source.
Components of a PV system
Due to the limited size of the solar cell it only delivers a limited amount of power under
fixed current voltage conditions that are not practical for most applications. In order to use
solar electricity for practical devices which require a particular voltage and/or current for
their operation, a number of solar cells have to be connected together to form a solar
module, also called a PV module. For large-scale generation of solar electricity, solar
panels are connected together into a PV array.