Construction of photovoltaic power generation system for communication base stations in Australia

Are there any Australian standards for PV array installation?

AGO have assisted with the development of Australian standards in this area and now there are a number of very helpful Australian standards giving guidance on PV array installation, (AS/NZS 5033) and AS 4777 which covers the installation and characteristics of inverters used for grid connected PV systems.

What is a photovoltaic power system?

Photovoltaic (PV) power systems installed on the surfaces of buildings allow the possibility of combining energy production with other functions of the building envelope including structural support, weatherproofing, shading, insulation or solar thermal collection. Cost savings through these combined functions can be substantial.

What is building integrated photovoltaics (BIPV)?

Building integrated photovoltaics (BiPV): The harnessing of solar power technologies as a part of, or attached to, the external building skin.

Do PV modules generate DC electricity?

PV modules generate DC electricity. Electrical standards require DC wiring to be heavily insulated and both cables and switches are more expensive than conventional AC wiring. Thus most installations limit the DC wiring run to the inverters to maximise the use of AC wiring.

What is a PV module?

A PV module is composed of interconnected cells that are encapsulated between a transparent cover and weatherproof backing as shown in figure 5. The modules are typically framed in aluminium for mounting, although frames may not be required for building applications. The PV module is the basic building block of any PV power system.

How can a PV system be utilised in a building?

Ventilation strategies within the building can be optimised to dispel hot air around the PV system, especially in summer periods. Opaque PV modules installed as PV window awnings and louvres provide shielding from direct sunlight while allowing diffuse light to penetrate the interior spaces of the building.