What components make up a photovoltaic power generation system?

Function: The core component of a photovoltaic system, converting sunlight into direct current (DC) electricity. It consists of multiple solar cells connected in series or parallel, encapsulated in a protective shell to resist environmental impacts and ensure stable, efficient power generation.

Common Types: Monocrystalline silicon, polycrystalline silicon, and thin-film modules. Monocrystalline has high efficiency but is more expensive; polycrystalline is cost-effective with slightly lower efficiency, while thin-film is lightweight and flexible but less efficient.

Function: Converts DC electricity from the photovoltaic modules into alternating current (AC) for grid use or direct consumption. It also controls and protects the system, ensuring stable operation and electrical safety.

Common Types: Central inverters for large plants, string inverters for distributed systems (with MPPT for each string), and microinverters for small-scale systems like residential rooftops, offering flexibility and monitoring at the module level.

Function: Supports and secures the photovoltaic modules, ensuring they stay at an optimal angle for maximum sunlight exposure. The bracket must be strong and stable enough to withstand external forces like wind and snow.

Common Types: Fixed, adjustable, and tracking brackets. Fixed is low-cost and simple, adjustable allows angle changes to improve efficiency, while tracking automatically follows the sun for maximum output but comes at a higher cost.

Function: Collects and manages the DC electricity from multiple photovoltaic strings, increasing the voltage to reduce cable losses and costs. It also provides overcurrent and lightning protection.

Common Types: DC combiner boxes (for connecting DC strings) and AC combiner boxes (for combining AC output from inverters to the grid).

Function: Transmit electrical power between the components, such as from the photovoltaic modules to the combiner box, inverter, and distribution cabinet.

Common Types: DC cables (connecting modules, combiner boxes, and inverters) and AC cables (connecting inverters to the grid or user side). DC cables have good insulation and weather resistance, while AC cables focus on conductivity and anti-interference.

Function: Controls and protects the electrical energy flow in the system, distributing the AC electricity from the inverter to the grid or load. It also monitors parameters like current, voltage, and leakage to ensure safe operation.

Common Types: Includes line cabinets (for receiving AC from the inverter), metering cabinets (for energy measurement), compensation cabinets (for reactive power compensation), and outlet cabinets (for distributing energy to the grid or users).

Function: Monitors the system's performance in real-time, tracking parameters like module output, inverter status, and grid conditions. It helps detect faults and abnormalities, aiding maintenance and management.

Common Types: Local systems use sensors on-site for immediate monitoring, while remote systems transmit data to a central control center for managing multiple systems and improving operational efficiency.