Photovoltaics
Clean solar power generation
Photovoltaics (PV) involve the conversion of energy from the sun into electricity by means of semiconductors. The solar energy excites electrons so that they break free from their atoms, allowing the electrons to flow through the semiconductor material to produce electricity. There are a number of PV technologies including polycrystalline, mono-crystalline and thin-film. Solar PV cells can be arranged in panels on a building's roof or walls and often directly feed electricity into the building for use as lighting or power.
Thin Film
Light weight and flexible this technology can be weaved into the fabric of a building in applications where surface area is not an issue. Applications include building canopies, facades and rain screens.
Concentrating Collector panels
This technology provides very high efficiency panels at remarkably low prices, using innovative design that focuses light onto photovoltaic receivers at the centre of a parabola, hence less silicon (approx 1/1000 of that used by flat panel technologies) and therefore a massive reduction in cost is achieved. This technology has the highest efficiency of any of the emerging technologies at around 30% and promises to be a major contributor to the Photovoltaic market place.
Building Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV)
BIPV are PV panels which look like roof tiles that can be integrated into a roof for low impact and are excellent for applications such as renovation work.
PV System Configuration
Grid Support
The solar system is connected to the local electricity network and a back-up energy storage system. Any excess solar electricity produced after the battery has been charged is then sold to the network. This is ideal for use in areas of unreliable power supply.
Off Grid
Completely independent of the grid, the solar system is directly connected to an energy storage system which stores the electricity generated and acts as the main power supply. An inverter can be used to provide AC power, enabling the use of normal appliances without mains power.
Hybrid System
A solar system can be combined with another source of power - a biomass generator, a wind turbine or diesel generator - to ensure a consistent supply of electricity. A hybrid system can be grid connect, stand alone or grid support.
Newform Energy offer a comprehensive supply and installation service for photovoltaic systems. Contact us to discuss your project requirements.
