PV-generated power offers advantages over diesel generators, primary (one-time use) batteries, and even conventional utility power. These benefits make PV the power of choice in more and more cases every day

PV cells were originally developed for use in space, where repair is extremely expensive, if not impossible. PV still powers nearly every satellite circling the earth because it operates reliably for long periods of time with virtually no maintenance.

This PV-powered water-level monitor on the Laramie River in Wyoming will operate reliably for several years with little or no maintenance. (Photo: W. Gretz, NREL)

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PV cells use the energy from sunlight to produce electricity—the fuel is free. With no moving parts, the cells require little upkeep. These low-maintenance, cost-effective PV systems are ideal for supplying power to communications stations on mountain tops, navigational buoys at sea, or homes far from utility power lines.

Once installed, PV power systems can operate continuously with little upkeep and minimal operating costs—a great benefit for this telecommunications station in a remote area of California's Inyo National Forest.

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Because they burn no fuel and have no moving parts, PV systems are clean and silent. This is especially important where the main alternatives for obtaining power and light are from diesel genertors and kerosene lanterns. As we become more aware of "greenhouse gases" and their detrimental effects on our planet, clean energy alternatives like PV become more important than ever.

As we begin to realize and respect the fragility of our planet's ecosystem, clean power choices like PV become extremely important. (Photo: NASA)

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A PV system can be constructed to any size based on energy requirements. Furthermore, the owner of a PV system can enlarge or move it if his or her energy needs change. For instance, homeowners can add modules every few years as their energy usage and financial resources grow. Ranchers can use mobile trailer-mounted pumping systems to water cattle as the cattle are rotated to different fields.

The Florida Solar Energy Center (FSEC) demonstrated the modular benefits of PV after Hurricane Andrew in 1993. FSEC employees deployed this PV emergency power system right at the point where it was needed after the hurricane. (Photo: FSEC)

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PV systems are usually placed close to where the electricity is used, requiring much shorter power lines than if power is brought in from the utility grid. In addition, using PV eliminates the need for a step-down transformer from the utility line. Less wiring means lower costs, shorter construction time, and reduced permitting paperwork, particularly in urban areas.

In the village of Cacimbos in the state of Ceará, Brazil, people are several miles from a utility grid. So, each of these homes has a 50-watt PV system to provide enough power for two fluorescent lights. (Photo: R. Taylor, NREL)

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The following are sample applications where PV is a viable, economical energy source.

• Communications
• Water Pumping
• Remote Homes
• Remote Villages
• Complementing Utility Power
• Utility Substation

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