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Individual
PV cells are connected together to form a module. Modules are
then linked and sized to meet a particular load (need). We call
this the PV array. A PV array fitted on a building can be connected
to the local electricity supply network. Thus, any excess electricity
produced can be exported to the grid. Alternatively, when demand
is high, extra electricity can be purchased from the grid through
the utility companies.
Where
there is no mains supply, PV arrays can be used to charge batteries.
PV arrays now come in a variety of shapes and colours, ranging
from grey 'solar tiles' that look like roof tiles, to panels and
transparent cells that you can use on conservatories and glass
to provide shading as well as generating electricity.
Domestic
Installations
The size of a PV array required to provide electricity for
a typical home varies, depending on load requirements (what you
want it to power) and the type of cell used. Typical systems are
generally around 1.5kWp, enough to provide around a third of the
average family's annual supply (assuming gas is used for heating
requirements and there are no energy efficiency savings). This
array would typically cover 10-15m2 of roof area.
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