Power From the Sun by Chiras, Dan -- Read -- Imperial Library of Trantor

Index

Cover Title Page Copyright Page 1. An Introduction to Solar Electricity

Understanding Rated Power An Overview of Solar Systems World Solar Energy Resources What the Critics Say The Advantages of Solar Electric Systems Purpose of this Book Organization of this Book

2. Understanding the Sun and Solar Energy

Understanding Solar Radiation The Sun and the Earth: Understanding the Relationships Conclusion

3. Understanding Solar Electricity

Brief History of PVs What Is a PV Cell? Types of PV Rating PV Modules and Sizing PV Systems Durability and Fire Resistance Advancements in PV: What’s on the Horizon? Conclusion: Should You Wait for the Latest, Greatest New Technology?

4. Solar Site Assessment

Assessing Electrical Demand Conservation and Efficiency First! Sizing a Solar Electric System Does a Solar Electric System Make Economic Sense? Putting It All Together

5. Solar Electric Systems: What Are Your Options?

Grid-connected PV Systems Grid-connected Systems with Battery Backup Off-grid (Stand-alone) Systems Hybrid Systems Choosing a PV System

6. Understanding Inverters

Do You Need an Inverter? How Does an Inverter Create AC Electricity? Transformerless Inverters Types of Inverters Retrofitting a Grid-tied System with Batteries Buying an Inverter Conclusion

7. Batteries, Charge Controllers, and Gen-sets

Understanding Lead-acid Batteries Sealed Batteries Wiring a Battery Bank Lithium Ion Batteries Sizing a Battery Bank Battery Maintenance and Safety Managing Charge to Ensure Longer Battery Life Charge Controllers Generators Living with Batteries and Generators

8. Mounting a PV Array for Maximum Output

What Are Your Options? Building-mounted PV Arrays Building-integrated PVs Conclusion

9. Final Considerations: Permits, Covenants, Utility Interconnection, and Buying a System

Permitting a PV System Covenants and Neighborhood Concerns Connecting to the Grid: Working with Your Local Utility Insurance Requirements Buying a PV System Parting Thoughts

Appendix A: Summary of State Net Metering Policies Resource Guide Index About the Author A Note About the Publisher