There are many different types of solar energy systems that will convert the solar resource into a useful form of energy. One, the solar resource is captured and converted into heat which is then supplied to a demand for thermal energy (thermal load) such as house heating, hot water heating or heat for industrial processes. This type of system may or may not include thermal storage, and usually include an auxiliary source of energy.
If the demand (load) to be met is electricity (an electrical load) rather than heat, there are two common methods of converting solar energy into electricity. One method is by collecting solar energy as heat and converting it into electricity using a typical plant or engine; the other method is by using photovoltaic cell to convert solar energy to direct electricity.
In general, if solar energy conversation systems are connected to a large electricity transmission grid, no storage or auxiliary energy supply is needed. If the solar energy conversion system is to be the only of electricity, storage and auxiliary energy supply are usually both incorporated. If the thermal route is chosen, storage of heat rather than electricity may be used to extend the operating time of the system.
Auxiliary energy may either be supplied either as heat before the power conversion system, or as electricity may be stored, usually in the batteries, thereby extending the operating time of the system. For auxiliary power, an external electricity source is the only choice for photovoltaic system.
The basic principles underlying the design and operation of solar energy conversion systems includes collection of solar energy, either by thermal or photovoltaic process, and integration with energy storage and thermal-to-electric energy conversion to meet a predefined load. Since our emphasis is on the design of entire solar energy conversion systems rather than design of its individual components, both thermal and photovoltaic systems are included.
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