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As I see it, the present large scale grid connected PV solar was made possible by
mature economy of scale, and 3 technologies which all trace back to the transistor.
The 6 in square PV cell has a far better performance to cost ratio than earlier cells
(typically round) based more on electronics production.
Large Field Effect power transistors have been developed, and used to build
sophisticated, large PV array DC to line AC inverters.
The Integrated Circuit is used for micro processors or controllers to operate the
inverters.
When solar cell prices became within reach of the public, they were quite expensive
per watt. Panels targeted lower power apps such as the 12V RV industry, and
required an absolute minimum of electronics to control (no AC involved). The 100W
PV panel worked where there was no alternate line source. They may still be used
in places where the larger, far more economical panels will not fit. Also work for
educational purposes. Bruce Roe
mature economy of scale, and 3 technologies which all trace back to the transistor.
The 6 in square PV cell has a far better performance to cost ratio than earlier cells
(typically round) based more on electronics production.
Large Field Effect power transistors have been developed, and used to build
sophisticated, large PV array DC to line AC inverters.
The Integrated Circuit is used for micro processors or controllers to operate the
inverters.
When solar cell prices became within reach of the public, they were quite expensive
per watt. Panels targeted lower power apps such as the 12V RV industry, and
required an absolute minimum of electronics to control (no AC involved). The 100W
PV panel worked where there was no alternate line source. They may still be used
in places where the larger, far more economical panels will not fit. Also work for
educational purposes. Bruce Roe
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