Solar systems—technical developments, areas of application

Solar systems convert solar energy into electricity or heat and make an important contribution to decentralized energy supply. The articles show technical developments, areas of application, and combinations of photovoltaics and solar thermal energy.

Solar systems – all articles on the topic of solar energy

Technical basics of modern solar systems

Today's solar systems are based on mature technical concepts that are continuously being further developed. Depending on their design, they convert solar energy either into electrical energy or directly into usable heat. Factors such as efficiency, system integration, and adaptation to different operating conditions are decisive for performance. In addition to individual components, the focus is increasingly shifting to the overall system. Inverters, control technology, storage solutions, and interfaces to other energy consumers determine how efficiently a system works in everyday use. Modern solar systems are therefore less about individual technology and more about being part of a networked energy system.

Areas of application for solar systems in private and commercial environments

Solar systems are used in a wide variety of areas. In the private sector, the focus is on self-sufficiency, long-term cost stability, and security of supply. In commerce and industry, scalability, load profiles, and economic efficiency play a central role. Planning, dimensioning, and operation vary significantly depending on the application. While smaller systems on residential buildings primarily optimize self-consumption, larger systems are specifically tailored to production processes, office buildings, or neighborhood solutions. Solar systems can be flexibly adapted to the respective energy requirements.

Combination of electricity and heat generation

A key advantage of solar systems is the possibility of combining different technologies. Photovoltaics and solar thermal energy pursue different approaches, but complement each other well within an overall concept. While electricity can be used in many ways or stored, thermal energy is directly available for hot water or heating support. This combination increases yields and closes supply gaps. Particularly in buildings with high heat and electricity requirements, this creates balanced systems that can gradually replace fossil fuels.

Solar systems as part of smart energy Systems

Solar systems are increasingly being viewed not in isolation, but as active components of smart energy systems. In conjunction with energy storage, digital control, and networked load management, they respond flexibly to generation and consumption. For decision-makers and experts, it is important to know how a solar system can be integrated into existing infrastructures. Issues such as grid stability, controllability, and long-term economic efficiency determine the role that solar technology will play in future supply concepts.

The importance of solar systems for decentralized energy supply

Solar systems make an important contribution to the decentralization of energy supply. Energy is generated where it is needed—on buildings, in businesses, or within neighborhoods. This reduces transport losses, relieves the burden on grids, and strengthens regional supply structures. This decentralized approach creates new scope for action for households, businesses, and municipalities. Solar systems are therefore not only technical systems, but also a strategic element of modern energy supply.

Solar modules, balcony power plants, and storage in a compact energy system

Modern solar modules now enable a wide variety of applications – from classic roof solutions to balcony power plants. Compact systems in which generation and use are closely linked are particularly in demand. Such a solar system can be operated with just a few modules and supplies electricity that can be used directly in the household. Many of these systems are offered as complete photovoltaic sets. These include modules, inverters, and, if desired, a storage unit that temporarily stores excess energy. The output is specified in kWp, while the usable amount of energy in the storage unit is measured in kWh. Especially in small systems, a storage unit ensures that the electricity generated is not only available during the day.

Plug-and-play solutions and storage for flexible use

A plug-and-play solar system is specially designed to be operated without complex installation. These systems can be connected directly to existing electrical circuits and are particularly suitable for tenants or households with limited space. Here, too, storage is playing an increasingly important role. A balcony power plant storage unit allows the electricity generated to be used at a later time, for example in the evening hours. This increases self-consumption and makes more efficient use of the solar system. It is crucial to balance the module output in kWp and the storage capacity in kWh in order to adapt the system to actual needs in a meaningful way.