PhotovoltaicThermalPhotovoltaic solar energy is obtained by direct and immediate transformation of the radiation from the sun into electrical power, due to the "photovoltaic effect". This transformation takes place in "solar cells", which are made of semi-conducting materials, mostly silicon.
When the light hits the cells, the photons transfer their energy to the semi-conductor’s electrons, which jump out, thus generating an electrical current capable of travelling through an external circuit.
Distribution of the energy generated by a photovoltaic array connected to the electricity grid
A system connected to the electricity grid needs a connection point with capacity to accept the power produced by the photovoltaic installation, established by the electricity company in the area. The power generated by the farm is direct current and cannot be discharged directly to the grid. Therefore, this power needs to be converted to alternating current with the same voltage and frequency as the grid. This conversion is carried out using an undulator or inverter.
The energy generated by the farm and subsequently transformed into alternating current by the inverter is measured by its corresponding output meter, approved by the electricity company, and based on which the electricity company will purchase the energy, as defined in R.D. 1578 / 2008, which establishes a premium for the whole of the useful life of the installation. In this way, the photovoltaic installation connected to the electricity grid is considered a safe, reliable, clean, easily installable and low maintenance investment.
The consumption of electricity by the owner is separate from the energy generated by the photovoltaic panels. Users buy the electricity they consume from the distributor at the established price and invoice the kWh generated at a higher price, as described previously.
Thermal solar energy consists in making use of the energy of the sun that can be used to produce hot water for use as domestic water and to feed the radiant floor heating or swimming pool heating systems.
Additionally, it can be used to feed the absorption air-conditioning machine, which uses heat instead of electricity to generate cold for air-conditioning in premises.
Thermal solar energy systems are comprised of solar collectors that absorb the energy generated by the sun. These systems are capable of absorbing the sun’s rays thanks to their coating, which can a painted surface or other selective surfaces. Due to the absorption properties of the surface used, the solar energy is transferred to the heat carrier liquid, which is inside the collector pipes, forming the system’s primary or solar circuit. This fluid subsequently flows into the accumulation tank, where, through a heat exchanger, it releases its heat into the water for consumption which is in the tank, but without the liquid mixing with this water. This makes it possible to have hot water during the night or when it is cloudy.
Kinsolar collaborates in the Environment and Alternative Energy master degree course, given by the IUSC (International University Study Centre)
