Photovoltaics (PV) converts solar radiation directly into electrical energy. With the increasing decentralization of power generation, PV systems are now an indispensable part of the energy system – from single-family homes to solar parks spanning several hundred megawatts. With double-digit annual growth rates, photovoltaics is one of the fastest-growing building blocks of the global energy transition and places correspondingly high demands on grid components.
How is photovoltaic power fed into the public grid?
PV modules generate direct current, which is converted by inverters into grid-compliant alternating current. For smaller installations, feed-in occurs directly into the low-voltage grid. Larger solar parks are connected to the medium- or high-voltage level via special PV transformers. Protection and control technology ensures that the installation operates in a grid-supportive manner.
Key Characteristics at a Glance
- Direct conversion of sunlight into electrical energy
- Installation sizes from a few kWp to over 500 MWp
- PV transformers with high efficiency in the partial-load range
- Grid-compliant feed-in through certified inverters
- Can be combined with battery storage systems (BESS)
- Bifacial modules for higher yields on reflective surfaces
- Tracker systems significantly increase daily energy yield
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are special transformers needed for PV installations?
PV installations generate power that fluctuates significantly over the course of the day, with frequent load changes. Special PV transformers are optimized for this mode of operation: high efficiency in the partial-load range, high cycling durability, and robustness against harmonics from the inverters.
How is grid power quality ensured during photovoltaic feed-in?
Modern inverters offer functions such as reactive power control, voltage stabilization, and frequency support. Combined with protection relays and instrument transformers, photovoltaics thus becomes an active part of grid regulation.
What role do substations play in a solar park?
They collect the electricity from multiple inverters, transform it to medium-voltage level, and route it to the central delivery substation. The design must account for fluctuating load profiles, high numbers of load changes, and, in some cases, extreme site conditions.
What should be considered when designing the grid connection?
Important factors include the correct choice of delivery voltage, consideration of power flows and voltage regulation, protection coordination with the grid operator, and compliance with all grid-supportive requirements. For larger solar parks, a dedicated substation is often economically sensible and significantly speeds up commissioning.
Are you planning a solar park or a larger rooftop installation? We supply the right transformers and advise you on the entire grid connection – contact us.