The 3 Different Types of Solar Power Systems Explained

Photovoltaic Power Generation System: A technology that uses solar energy to convert light energy into electrical energy by collecting solar energy through photovoltaic panels installed on the roof or on the ground and converting it into electrical energy that can be used to supply electricity.

Solar thermal power generation systems: Capable of generating thermal energy from solar energy and using it to generate electricity. Such systems typically include solar thermal collectors, which are used to collect heat and transfer it to steam boilers or other power-generating fuels.

Combined photovoltaic and thermal power systems (Solar thermal co-generation system: Use photovoltaic and thermal technologies to convert solar heat and light energy into electrical energy that can be used to generate electricity by collecting it simultaneously. Such systems are typically more efficient than single photovoltaic or thermal power generation systems.

Comparison of photovoltaic power generation system, solar thermal power generation system and solar thermal co-generation system：

Photovoltaic power generation system: It is a way to convert solar energy into electricity by using solar photovoltaic effect. This system has the advantages of simple and reliable, environmental protection and energy saving, no noise and no pollution, etc. However, because of its strong dependence on sunlight, the power generation capacity of PV power generation system will be affected in rainy weather or when there is insufficient energy at night.

Solar thermal power generation system: A system that uses solar collectors to convert sunlight into heat energy, and then converts the heat energy into electricity through a thermal power machine. The advantage of this system is that it can obtain both thermal and electrical energy and has high energy utilization efficiency, but the equipment cost is high and it is not very adaptable to rainy weather and night time.

Solar thermal co-generation system: Combining a solar photovoltaic power generation system and a solar thermal utilization system, the system utilizes both light and heat energy from the sun to achieve joint production of electricity and heat through photovoltaic power generation and solar thermal utilization. This system can substantially improve the utilization rate of all-weather, but the equipment cost is high and maintenance is difficult.

In summary, each of the three solar power systems has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the appropriate system should be selected according to the specific circumstances.