According to a survey by Absolar (Brazilian Photovoltaic Solar Energy Association), Brazil surpassed a total of 1 million consumers with self-generated solar power. However, even with this milestone — and the position of 14th place in the group of countries with the largest installed solar power capacity —,Many Brazilians don't know exactly how the photovoltaic system works. Check below what it is and how the photovoltaic system works. 

What is a photovoltaic system? 

It is the system that uses photosensitive panels to transform solar energy to the electrical energy used in daily life, in commercial and residential establishments. This transformation occurs through a phenomenon called the “voltaic effect,” which happens when photons from sunlight collide with the silicon atoms in a solar panel. This process generates the displacement of electrons, which in turn results in a direct current of energy. 

How does a photovoltaic system work?

The photovoltaic system, through its panels, generates direct current power (voltage/current), which is then transferred to the solar inverter (a device that converts direct current to alternating current). At this point, depending on the voltage used in the establishment, a transformer is employed to receive the voltage from the inverter and correct it to the grid/consumer voltage. Only after this process does the energy go to the electrical panel and can finally be used in homes. 

It is important to note that this energy production occurs only during the day and can be carried out in up to three different ways: on-grid, off-grid, or hybrid. Check out the details of each of them below. 

• Off-grid photovoltaic system: known as an off-grid or standalone photovoltaic system, it does not require contact with the electrical grid. From this, this energy goes directly to power electrical appliances or is stored in batteries, ensuring supply when there is no sunlight. 
  
  
• On-grid solar power system Unlike the previous system, this one is not autonomous but connected to the power distribution grid. This allows for the use of electricity from the grid during times when the panels are not receiving sunlight. Additionally, when there is excess production due to strong sunlight, this remaining energy is sent to the utility company, generating energy credits. Each kWh generated in excess by the solar system corresponds to 1 kWh credit to be consumed within 5 years. Thus, this excess energy produced helps reduce the electricity bill, as it can be offset against the total energy consumed from the utility company during periods of no sunlight.   

• Hybrid photovoltaic system As the name itself suggests, the hybrid photovoltaic system allows for the combination of both systems previously presented: grid-connected (on-grid) and autonomous (off-grid). In other words, it can be connected to the distribution grid – allowing it to meet needs and even generate surplus energy – and also integrated with a battery storage system. This way, it allows for energy during the night and ensures supply in case of failures.