Grid-connected photovoltaic systems are
currently the most popular method of exploiting solar radiation, since legislation regulates the system of incentives for energy delivered from such plants. From the technical perspective, these are relatively simple systems consisting of two main components:
- Photovoltaic generator (photovoltaic modules generating direct current power, usually connected into strings)
- Inverter (one or several strings are directed to the inverter, which converts direct current power into alternating current power with grid characteristics suited for delivery into the public network (230/400V, 50Hz))
In addition to this heart of the system, the system’s integral parts are aluminum substructure, distribution cabinets and cables. The grid-connected photovoltaic systems – solar power stations can be, according to legal regulations, roughly classified by their construction and power as
•
INTEGRATED (power stations placed on a legally constructed building)
- Power stations up to, inclusively,10 kW
- Power stations whose power ranges from more than 10 kW up to, inclusively, 30 kW
- Power stations whose power ranges from more than 30 kW up to, inclusively, 300 kW
NON-INTEGRATED (detached systems placed on land)
As for the economic aspect of such systems, the Tariff System for Generation of Electric Power from Renewable Sources and Co-Generation (Official Gazette 133/13) is currently in force in Croatia, and defines purchase prices depending on the system’s construction and power, as well as use or non-use of similar renewable sources of energy at the location.
Details are in the table below.
