Solar PV in Mayo (Solar Photovoltaics)

Photovoltaics is a technology with many advantages and unique selling points. It is worth summarising them:

• Photovoltaic technology is mature, robust and reliable, has no moving parts and requires minimum maintenance.

• No fuel or supply chain needed

• Photovoltaic systems are relatively easy and quick to install – particularly grid-tied systems

• The components used in photovoltaic systems have proved themselves during long use, they are weather resistant, UV resistant and can withstand extremes of temperature – in space exploration photovoltaics power space station life support systems.

• Stand-alone photovoltaics can supply power practically anywhere on the planet

• Photovoltaic systems reduce emissions of the greenhouse gas carbon dioxide

• Photovoltaic modules are recyclable, various technologies exist which can recycle modules at the end of their lives or if they have been damaged; the cells, the glass, the aluminium frames can be either reused or recycled.

• Photovoltaics promote energy awareness – home owners with grid-tied systems become interested in low energy appliances; with stand alone systems low energy appliances are essential.

• Photovoltaic systems add to the value of the building on which they are installed.