electricity +
photovoltaics

Photovoltaics (PV) convert energy from the sun into electricity. 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.

types of photovoltaic technologies

photovoltaic thin film

a 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

These provide very high efficiency panels at remarkably low prices, using innovative design that focuses light onto photovoltaic receivers. 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.

concentrating-collector-panels

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.

solar-shingle.jpg

pv system configuration

grid support

The PV 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.