Page 147 - Solar Power in Building Design The Engineer's Complete Design Resource

5

SOLAR POWER GENERATION

PROJECT IMPLEMENTATION

Introduction

In previous chapters we covered the basic concepts of solar power system design,
reviewed various system configurations, and outlined all major system equipment and
materials required to implement a solar power design. In this chapter the reader will
become acquainted with a number of solar power installations that have been imple-
mented throughout the United States and abroad. The broad range of projects reviewed
include very small stand-alone pumping stations, residential installations, solar farm
installations, large pumping stations, and a few significant commercial and institu-
tional projects. All these projects incorporate the essential design concepts reviewed
in Chapter 2. Prior to reviewing the solar power projects, the design engineers must
keep in mind that each solar power system design presents unique challenges, requir-
ing special integration and implementation, that may not have been encountered
before and may recur in future designs.

Designing a Typical Residential

Solar Power System

A typical residential solar power system configuration consists of solar photovoltaic
(PV) panels; a collector fuse box; a dc disconnect switch; some lightning protection
devices; a charge controller for a battery if required; an appropriately sized inverter;
the required number of PV system support structures; and miscellaneous components,
such as electrical conduits or wires and grounding hardware. Additional expenses
associated with the solar power system will include installation labor and associated
electrical installation permits.

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