One of the most important topics discussed within sustainable development are the forms of energies. There is an increasingly intense need to search for alternative sources and that do not destroy the planet's resources. Before we talk about some of the alternative forms of energy, photovoltaic, it is important to understand that energy sources are basically divided into renewable and non-renewable energies. Non-renewable energy sources are so called when they are present in nature in limited quantities. In other words, they cannot be renewed if they run out. fossil fuels, for example. Already the renewable energy comes from resources that are naturally replenished, as well as: sun, wind, rain, biomass, tides and geothermal energy.

The sun's rays reach the planet daily in a free and clean, and are a great source of renewable energy. In addition to bringing light and heat necessary for the development of life on Earth, the sun's rays are transformed into energy both in the form of heat and electricity. Below we will talk a little more about solar energy in the form of electricity – known as Photovoltaic Energy.

What is Photovoltaic Energy?

This energy produced directly from light is called Photovoltaic, the term comes from the combination of the words photo (light) and voltaic (volts, unit of electrical voltage). photovoltaic cell is traditionally made from super thin slices of silicon: second most abundant element on the planet.

Sunlight is pure energy and is made up of tiny elements called photons. When photons hit the photovoltaic cell, some of them are absorbed. When sunlight hits a photovoltaic cell, these photons trigger the electrons of the semiconductor material, causing movement and generating electricity. For the energy produced in the cells to have characteristics of electrical grid – such as frequency, harmonic content and waveform – it is necessary to send it to a device called inverter. THE inverter also offers a protective function that monitors the voltage and frequency of the grid. In the event of a failure of the power supplied by the grid, or non-compliance with the electrical power quality requirements, it switches off. When the system is installed in buildings, normally replaces architectural coverings of buildings – roofs and facades – or is superimposed on them. The energy generated can be injected into the city's electrical grid.

Difference between cell, module and panel

THE cell is the basic unit developed to perform the direct conversion from solar energy to electrical energy. Now the module is the unit formed by a set of electrically interconnected and encapsulated solar cells, with the aim of generating electricity. The panels are one or more electrically interconnected photovoltaic modules, assembled to form a single structure.

Advantages

Photovoltaic systems offer advantages for electrical grid. One example is the reduction of losses in energy distribution. Since electricity is consumed where it is produced, the low environmental impact of the installation and can be produced even on cloudy and rainy days. Buildings that use this technology generate more electricity at times of greatest demand in Brazil, since we use more air conditioning in the summer, precisely when we have greater exposure to the sun. In addition, the panels can be quickly installed due to its great modularity, increasing energy generation in the same area. In addition to solar radiation in Brazil being abundant, we have one of the largest silicon reserves in the world. For this reason, Brazil is a privileged location for a photovoltaic industry.

Follow the posts of our blog and stay up to date with innovations and new trends used in civil construction and access www.emplavi.com.br to learn about our projects.