From cell to system

Photovoltaic cells have to be integrated into complete systems, optimized for the specific requirements, with a view to system performance, cost and environmental characteristics. Cells are first integrated, in series and in parallel, into modules, to standardize the power delivered at a given voltage and current. The modules are then interconnected to form strings of higher power, and connected to a power optimization station for conversion into alternating current for grid injection, direct supply or storage. A photovoltaic system is therefore a complex system involving high-tech electrical functions, as well as monitoring, command and control systems that are increasingly linked to the Internet.
We will present the various components of today's systems, and how they are evolving to adapt to different environments (rooftops, solar farms, floating photovoltaics, agri-photovoltaics, autonomous systems, etc.). We will discuss the emergence of synergies between photovoltaic systems, the electricity grid, storage (batteries and hydrogen), electric mobility and the Internet, in line with the vision presented by Jeremy Rifkin.