Introduction to photovoltaic system performance

Photovoltaic systems are used in a wide range of applications and can be designed in a range of configurations, including grid-connected or stand-alone, fixed or tracking, flat plate or concentrator operation. This chapter discusses the basic components and designs of the photovoltaic system and describes the performance parameters used to express the system output. It provides an introduction to the principles of photovoltaic system performance for those new to the technology, a reminder for the more experienced readers and a basis for the more in-depth discussions in the later chapters of the book