Current Applications and Research in Photovoltaic Technology for Buildings

Course Summary:

Effective use of photo voltaic (PV) technology can help the federal sector meet its goals of reducing energy consumption and expanding the use of renewable energy in the federal sector. PV systems like those discussed in this course may help federal facilities integrate PV into their energy mix. This course examined some of the costs and benefits of PV systems and associated technologies for federal facilities. Potential benefits of installing PV systems at federal facilities include these:

• Reliability-they operate for long periods with little maintenance.
• Low operating costs-the fuel is free, and there are few, if any, moving parts.
• Low environmental impact-they are quiet and non-polluting and require no air permitting.
• Standalone capability-they can operate in remote areas far from power lines.
• Modularity-power output can be increased by adding more panels.
• Safety-they are not flammable and meet National Electric Code requirements.
• Versatility-they operate well in almost any climate.
• Ease of installation-no heavy construction equipment is required.
• Grid support-they provide energy security in areas where electricity shortages are anticipated.

Learning Objective:

• Case Study 1: Grid-Connected, 10-kW Solar PV System at a National Weather Service Facility
• Case Study 2: A Combined Building-Integrated Photovoltaic System and Demand Response System at a U.S. Postal Service Facility
• Case Study 3: Offset-Mounted PV for Low-Slope Commercial Roofs

Review the quiz before studying the course.

Course Content

Course Author: US Department of Energy