Capturing The Sun

Commonly known as a solar power system or solar cells the word “photovoltaic” comes from the term “photo” which means light and “voltaic” which means volt.  Photovoltaic is shortened to the abbreviation PV and is a scientific term used to describe a solar cell.  A solar cell converts sunlight directly into electricity.  Capturing the power of the sun and making it into usable electricity.

Capturing light power was first described by using a magnifying glass to focus the sun’s rays.  According to historical accounts, in 7^th century BC the sun’s rays were concentrated with a magnifying glass to create fire to use as an ancient extermination method.  In particular, ants were killed by harnessing the power of the sun.   That’s gross but at the time it was considered cutting edge.  

In the late 1800s several US patents describe solar cells.  In 1921 when Albert Einstein won a Noble prize for his theories explaining the photoelectric effect.   This was a well-deserved reward for over 15 years of research and writings.   But it wasn’t until the 1950s when the first “usable” solar cell was developed.  At Bell labs the trio of Daryl Chapin, Calvin Fuller and Gerald Pearson are credited for the first solar cell capable of producing enough power to run common electrical equipment.  The accidental discovery was hailed by the New York Times as the beginning of a new era.  Indeed it was a defining event in the history of renewable energy.

Today photovoltaic energy is used to power everything from handheld calculators to cars to airplanes.   Photovoltaic systems like the one in the picture are commonplace as a renewable energy resource for homes, farms and businesses.  Functional, high-tech commercial, industrial and residential photovoltaic (PV) systems can be stand-alone or grid-tied. 

Stand-alone PVs are seen in remote locations where utility power is impractical or inaccessible.   

These systems are separate from the power grid and require batteries to store the power. 

Grid-tied PVs are connected to the power grid.  In this case, the business or homeowner becomes an energy producer.  Producing power for themselves, with any excess generated power going back to the grid.  A net metering agreement with the local power company and net metering equipment is necessary. 

Harnessing the power of the sun through a photovoltaic system produces clean emissions-free electricity. It is true that greenhouse gas emissions are produced during the manufacturing process of PV equipment.  But, the energy produced during the useful life of the product results in zero ghg emissions.  It’s not uncommon to see manufactures warranties for 20 – 25 years, with the useful life perhaps spanning even greater.  Making photovoltaic power a very popular “go-green” solution.  

Three Phase can design, build and install a photovoltaic system for your home, farm or business.  We work with both grid-tie and stand-alone systems.  We can install a single array of solar panels or string multiple arrays together.  Photovoltaic systems can also be combined with wind power.  One nice thing about alternative energy is you can start out with a smaller system and add to it later.