PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEMS

An overview of photovoltaic systems is presented including a discussio n of major U.S. and international activities. After a brief review of system types and output characteristics, various system configurations are discussed and a classification based on photovoltaic (PV) system rating is provided. Modeling, design, and economic considerations are briefly discussed. Synopses of typical operating systems in the United States, Japan, and in selected European countries are included. The w orldwide status of PV system technology is discussed with a view to ma king an assessment of the future. The assessment presented includes so me specific areas for further research and development. Although no ma jor technical barriers are evident for the entry of PV, as the level o f penetration increases, several key issues identified in this paper w ill need further consideration. Photovoltaics is still evolving and ha s not reached its full potential. It is likely to grow for decades to come; however, the rate of growth may depend on several exogenous fact ors such as cost of conventional energy sources and the people's desir e to improve the global environment.