Photovoltaic solar energy consists in the use of solar radiation in order to produce electrical energy. In this process photovoltaic modules made of silicon cells are used which produce electricity when activated by sunlight. Two groups can be established in accordance to the use made of this energy, either isolated photovoltaic solar energy for individual use or photovoltaic solar energy which distributed to numerous users through a connection to the main electricity supply grid.
In isolated use the energy is stored in batteries, while in installations connected to the grid, all the energy produced may be sent to the distributor company. The fee in KWh produced is regulated in Spain by Royal Decree 661/2007. In installations constructed up to September 2008 the prices for KWh are as follows:
- Capacity under 100KW: 0.455134 €/KWh
- Capacity over 100KW: 0.431486 €/KWh
The criteria for increases are stipulated in the following manner:
- Up to 2012 IPC-0.25
- After 2013 IPC-0.5
In fixed installations the energy-producing modules are fixed onto roofs or land. Roof installation is an excellent way to use an area which is of little use. These systems are especially suitable on industrial or agricultural buildings.
In this system the electric modules are installed on land which is of little value. The modules are mounted on mobile structures which follow the movement of the sun in order to maximise operational time. These installations therefore provide a greater yield than fixed installations.
There are places where an electrical supply is not available – in irrigation systems, isolated houses, stock farms, etc - and the use of electrical energy is necessary. In this case the energy produced in the photovoltaic modules is stored in batteries in order to produce a constant flow of energy.