Photovoltaic cells are the core components of solar photovoltaic power generation in distributed energy and are widely used in distributed energy systems, mainly including the following aspects:
Distributed photovoltaic power generation system
Rooftop photovoltaic power generation: Photovoltaic cells can be assembled into photovoltaic modules and installed on the rooftops of buildings. For instance, on the rooftops of residential buildings, industrial plants, commercial buildings, etc., solar energy is converted into electricity for the buildings' own use, and the excess electricity can also be fed into the power grid. This application method makes full use of the roof space, does not occupy additional land resources, can effectively reduce the energy consumption cost of buildings, and achieve energy conservation and emission reduction.
Ground-mounted distributed photovoltaic power stations: Distributed photovoltaic power stations with relatively small scales are built on open areas around cities, in rural areas, mountainous regions, etc. By forming an array of a large number of photovoltaic cells, solar energy is converted into direct current, which is then converted into alternating current through an inverter and fed into the power grid. Such power stations are usually close to the power load center, which can reduce the loss during the power transmission process and provide clean energy for the local area.
Photovoltaic carport: Build photovoltaic carports in parking lots, gas stations and other places, and install photovoltaic cells on the top. It not only provides a place for vehicles to shelter from the sun and rain, but also can generate electricity by utilizing solar energy. The electricity generated can be used for carport lighting, power supply for charging piles, etc., achieving multi-functional utilization of space and self-sufficiency in energy.
Distributed energy systems that complement other energy sources
Wind-solar hybrid power generation system: By combining photovoltaic cells with wind turbines, it takes advantage of the complementarity of solar and wind energy in time and space to achieve more stable power output. In some regions where both wind and solar energy resources are relatively abundant, this complementary system can effectively enhance the reliability and stability of energy supply and reduce the impact caused by fluctuations in a single energy source.
Integrated photovoltaic and energy storage system: It combines photovoltaic cell power generation with energy storage devices (such as lithium batteries, lead-acid batteries, etc.). When there is sufficient sunlight, photovoltaic cells convert solar energy into electrical energy. Part of it is used by the load, and the excess electrical energy is stored in energy storage devices. At night or when there is insufficient light, the energy storage device releases electrical energy to meet the load demand. This kind of system can improve the utilization efficiency of energy, enhance the autonomy and stability of distributed energy systems, and reduce the reliance on the power grid.
Other distributed application scenarios
Agricultural photovoltaic: Applying photovoltaic cells to the agricultural production field, such as building photovoltaic power stations above farmlands, orchards, and breeding farms, to achieve "agriculture and photovoltaic complementarity". It neither affects the agricultural production function of the land nor can it increase additional income by generating electricity through solar energy. For instance, photovoltaic power stations can be built above fish ponds to achieve "fishery and photovoltaic complementarity", with fish raised below and electricity generated above, thereby enhancing the comprehensive utilization efficiency of land and water areas.
Photovoltaic water pump system: In remote areas or regions with scarce water resources, the electricity generated by photovoltaic cells is used to drive water pumps, extracting water from underground or rivers for irrigation, water supply, etc. This system does not rely on power supply from the power grid and has the advantages of independent operation and low maintenance costs. It can effectively solve the local water supply problem and promote the development of agricultural production and life.
Small portable power supply: Integrating photovoltaic cells into small devices such as solar backpacks and solar chargers, it provides convenient mobile power sources for outdoor activity enthusiasts, residents in remote areas or emergency rescue personnel. These small devices are charged by solar energy and can charge mobile phones, tablets, lighting equipment, etc. anytime and anywhere, meeting people's electricity demands in the absence of municipal power supply.