How Solar PV Systems work

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The energy from the Sun that hits the earth in one hour is enough to meet the entire world’s energy demands for one year. Solar Photovoltaic (PV) systems harness the sun’s energy and convert it to usable electricity. The technology has a long history of applications and is a tried and tested way to generate electricity in an environmentally responsible manner.

You may recall seeing smaller photovoltaic cells on calculators, even many years ago. In fact, photovoltaic systems were used by NASA to power satellite electrical systems in space as far back as 1958. Now the technology is much more accessible to the everyday consumer and has evolved a great deal. Today, it is not uncommon to see solar panels providing energy to homes, farms, industries and even entire towns.

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A typical Solar PV system consists of 3 main components: 
solar panels, racking and an inverter.

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Solar Panels

A photovoltaic solar panel is composed of several photovoltaic cells. These cells directly convert sunlight into electricity. Installing solar panels on a rooftop or in an open space with ample direct sunlight, allows the owner to generate sufficient energy for a variety of applications. Panels are manufactured in many countries around the world, even here in Canada. At Eco Generation Services, our panels are:

• Monocrystalline PV modules
• Framed using an anodized aluminum alloy and tempered glass with anti-reflective coating
• Manufactured in Ontario in 2011 to meet domestic content requirements

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Racking 

Aluminum racking allows for solar panels to be mounted safely and securely to either a roof or in a ground array.  At Eco Generation Services, our racking is:

• Engineered for solar panel mounting for both roof and ground mount systems
• Lightweight, strong, and corrosion resistant Made of recycled aluminum, and 100% recyclable
• Uses a flashing system that provides the industry’s best protection against roof leaks
• Manufactured in Ontario to meet the 2011 domestic content requirements

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Inverter 

The electricity generated by solar photovoltaic cells is DC (direct current). An inverter is an electrical component that converts this DC electricity into the AC (alternating current) that is required by the grid or your home. At Eco Generation Services, our inverters are:

• Rated among the highest efficiency units in the industry – increased output means increased revenue!
• Intelligent system managers, responsible for energy yield monitoring and grid management
• Manufactured in Ontario in 2011 to meet domestic content requirements

Solar Photovoltaic Systems will decrease your family’s dependence on fossil fuels, a great way to reduce your impact on the environment 

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