Photovoltaic energy results from the direct transformation of the sunlight into electric power by means of cells usually made of silicium. To produce sufficient power, cells are bundled together to form a module, also known as solar panel. According to the power needed, the panels themselves can be put together to form a “photovoltaic field”.

For some applications, it is necessary to convert direct current (DC) into alternative current (AC), comparable with the one that supplies our domestic appliances, like television or refrigerator. This conversion is possible through an inverter which is integrated into the PV installation.

Supply through sunlight radiation
Directly connected to a receiver, the solar panel simply works with the “radiation of sunlight”, which means that the electric power supplied by the receiver varies according to lighting. Hence it hits its peak output when the sun reaches its zenith and is null at night.

Those direct sunlight systems work perfectly for pumping water, which is then directly stored in a tank.

Fore more information... Read our pages on Solar Pumping.

Supply through the energy stored on batteries
Very often, our electricity needs do not match the sunshine hours, or require a regular intensity (for instance, for lighting or refrigerator supply). In this case, we equip the battery system with accumulators which allow to store electricity and to restore it at appropriate times. A controller is essential in order to protect the batteries from overload or discharges which are harmful to them.

For more information... Read our pages on Remote Locations



Grid connection
Used more and more for homes and buildings, the grid connection enables to inject the energy produced directly into the local electrical supply network. The energy produced is thus taken into account by EDF thanks to the use of an approved meter.

For more information...Read our pages on Grid Connection.