AC Side
In a photovoltaic system, the term "AC side" refers to all components that are connected after the inverter and are thus operated with alternating current (AC). In contrast to the DC side (direct current side), where the direct current generated by the solar modules flows, the AC side involves feeding the electricity into the public grid or using it for self-consumption.
Functionality:
- Inverter: The heart of the AC side is the inverter. It converts the direct current generated by the solar modules into a sinusoidal alternating current that meets the requirements of the power grid.
- Grid connection: Through the grid connection, the generated electricity is fed into the public power grid or into the household electrical system for self-consumption.
- Meter: A meter measures the amount of energy fed into the grid or drawn from it.
- Fuses: Fuses protect the system from overloads and short circuits.
- Surge protection: Surge protection components prevent damage from voltage spikes.
- Energy storage: Optionally, a battery storage system can be connected on the AC side to store excess solar power and feed it back into the grid when needed.
Importance:
The AC side plays a crucial role in utilizing the generated solar power. It ensures that the electricity is available in a form compatible with the power grid and enables both grid feed-in and self-consumption.
Summary:
The AC side of a photovoltaic system is the part responsible for feeding solar power into the grid or for self-consumption. All components after the inverter, such as meters, fuses, and possibly energy storage systems, belong to the AC side.
Additional terms: DC side, Self-consumption, Feed-in