A Practical Guide to Solar Photovoltaic Systems for Technicians (Sizing, Installation and Maintenance)

Solar photovoltaic systems provide an environmentally sustainable source of energy and have the potential to vastly improve the lives of many people in isolated areas of the world. First published in 2008, the first edition has been used to train more than ten thousand engineers and field technicians to install and maintain such systems. The newest edition of this practical manual is enriched with new field experiences and accurate and up-to-date information on lithium-ion batteries, which enable photovoltaic systems to better store electricity - a further advance for off-grid installations particularly in remote rural areas. Essential information is included on how to calculate the system load, and how to size the PV panels, the batteries and accompanying regulators accordingly. The book also reflects other advances including increased efficiency of solar panels, and the widening range of low-energy consumer devices that are likely to be used. Full of practical advice that is easy to implement, this quick reference manual is the ideal tool for every promoter and user of solar photovoltaic systems.