Grid connected solar PV system an overview

A solar photovoltaic (PV) system provides electricity from sunlight. A grid connected system is connected directly into (and synchronised with) a building's existing mains supply. On a sunny day, the power generated by the PV system reduces the amount of electricity that needs to be purchased from the electricity company. On very sunny days, or at times when not many loads are turned on, electricity production may be greater than the demand in the building - and the surplus will be exported out into the grid.

The system consists of three elements: An array of photovoltaic modules (the part that generates the electricity); an Inverter (an electronic device that safely converts the output of the solar array into AC "mains"); Cables, display(s) and switchgear