PHOTOVOLTAIC ARRAY
What is a PV array?
This is a placeholder for an exploded diagram of a PV panel
The Basics
Photovoltaic (PV) arrays are electrical power generating systems made of semiconductors which generate power using incident energy from the sun. Photovoltaics convert sunlight to direct current (DC) which can be converted to alternating current (AC) using appropriate power conversion equipment.
PV arrays consist of a series of connected photovoltaic cells, together referred to as modules. One or more connected modules constitute a PV panel; any number of PV panels constitutes a solar array [1].
The Specifics
From the inside out, PV arrays are made up of sheets of multicrystalline silicon cells, sandwiched between sheets of ethylene vinyl acetate, encased in 4mm tempered glass. A PET (polyethylene terephthalate) sheet protects the back of the module. The frame is made from anodized aluminum, which is light, non-conductive, and resistant to corrosion [2].
The Golisano Institute for Sustainability
Institute Hall is home to three Suncase MX 60 PV arrays, each consisting of a group of 60 multicrystalline silicon cells, measuring 156x156mm each, and arranged in a 6x10 pattern [2]. Two arrays are located on the upper roof of Institute Hall, and one array on the lower, green roof. DC to AC inverters are located in the Micro Grid Test Bed 1270 on the first floor. Each inverter connects to a 480Y/277V panel board that is separately metered and feeds back to the building power distribution system.
Footnotes:
1. "Solar Electricity Basics." Florida Solar Energy Center. University of Central Florida. 2014.
2. "Suncase MX60." Manufacturer Spec Sheet, MX Solar USA LLC. Nov 2011.
How does a PV array work?
This is a placeholder for a process cartoon of how a PV panel works
The Basics
PV cells consist of thin wafers of multicrystalline silicon cells, with two semiconductors (P type and N type) forming a PN junction. When sunlight, which consists of photons, hits the PV cells, it can 1) bounce off the surface of the cell 2) be absorbed into the cell or 3) pass through the cell. PV cells only function when photons are absorbed.
The Specifics
Absorbed photons produce a current flow within the PV cell: When the energy of the incident photons exceeds the band gap energy (the energy needed to free electrons from their orbit in the electron field of a silicon atom) power is generated. The power of output electricity is directly proportional to the incident sunlight intensity, efficiency and the surface area of the array.
Golisano Institute for Sustainability
The upper roof arrays can produce 20kW each; the lower roof array can produce 5kW for a combined 45kW of electricity. However, variables like weather affect the actual output of the arrays: the Suncase arrays are expected to produce an average of 35-40 kW in sunny weather, peaking between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. [1].
Footnotes:
1. Absi, Danielle, et. al. “Golisano Institute for Sustainability: Initial Assessment of Distributed Thermal and Electrical System Performance.” Final Report for Integrated Building Energy Systems GIS 5001.801.08 (Independent Study), Rochester Institute of Technology, 2013
Why should I care?
PEOPLE
This text will explain how the PV array affects the building users in the context of the triple bottom line of sustainability.
ECONOMY
This text will explain how the PV array affects the building users in the context of the triple bottom line of sustainability.
"At certain points throughout the day, the solar performance of the arrays is able to match the lighting load for the entire GIS building.”1
ENVIRONMENT
This text will explain how the PV array affects the building users in the context of the triple bottom line of sustainability.
Footnotes:
1. Absi, Danielle, et. al. “Golisano Institute for Sustainability: Initial Assessment of Distributed Thermal and Electrical System Performance.” Final Report for Integrated Building Energy Systems GIS 5001.801.08 (Independent Study), Rochester Institute of Technology, 2013