Advantages, Disadvantages and Applications of Photovoltaic System of Electric Power Generation
(A) Advantages (Merits) of Photovoltaic System :
- System can be built at remote locations and R is simple stand alone.
- Selection is very easy for power capacities selection and R can function unattended for a long time.
- Other thermal processes are omitted in this system as the system converts solar energy Into electrical energy directly.
- System is maintenance free.
- Solar cells are reliable, durable and modular.
- Performance is stable for a long time, life span is more than 25 years or so.
- Transmission of electric power is not costly as the generation plant can be located at place of utility of electric power.
- Absence of moving parts.
- Voltage and power outputs can be manipulated by Integration.
(B) Disadvantages (Drawbacks/Demerits) of Photovoltaic System :
- Solar energy is not continuous in all hours of day, not for all days nor for throughout all seasons of an year.
- It also varies place to place.
- Due to these two drawbacks for catering a large storage system is required in the system during non-sunlight period.
- Due to this reason, the system is bulky and costly.
- Conversion efficiency of solar cell is poor, about 30% only.
- Large area is needed to cater for low intensity of solar radiations.
- Cost of photovoltaic cell material is very costly. This increases the cost of the plant in comparison with other plants.
(C) Applications of Photovoltaic System :
- Autonomous system
- Solar water pumps
- Central power generation
- Space satellite power stations