A photovoltaic system looks complex, but it works on simple principles. Here is the complete energy flow diagram and the role of each component.

Energy flow — 6 stages

1. Photovoltaic panels they convert sunlight into direct current (DC) at 30-40V per panel.

2. Series/parallel connection: the panels are grouped in a "string" that raises the voltage to 400-600V DC (more efficient for transport).

3. The MPPT controller (in the hybrid inverter) extracts maximum power from the panels by continuously adjusting the operating point.

4. The DC/AC inverter converts direct current to alternating current 230V 50Hz for consumers.

5. Distribution board: AC energy passes through meters, protections and reaches the circuits of the house.

6. Surplus → batteries or mains: the unconsumed energy goes either to the batteries (if hybrid system) or to the public network (as a prosumer).

Detailed key components

Photovoltaic panels

The heart of the system. TOPCon, HJT or PERC technologies. They convert photons into electrons through the photoelectric effect. 22-26% efficiency for modern panels.

Hybrid inverter

The brain of the system. Manage:

• Panel Manufacturing (MPPT)
• Charging the batteries
• Supply of energy to consumers
• Synchronization with the public network
• Automatic Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS)

LiFePO4 batteries

It stores the daytime surplus for nighttime consumption. Typical capacity 5-15 kWh per pack.

Smart Meter

It measures bidirectional flow with the network. Required for prosumer status.

DC and AC cables

Photovoltaic Specs — UV resistant, double insulated, calculated loss section <2%.

Visual flow chart

PANELS → MPPT → HYBRID INVERTER → HOUSE BOARD → CONSUMERS
                       ↓ ↑ ↓ ↑
                    BATTERY METER → NETWORK

What happens in different situations

Sunny day, low consumption: panels produce → direct consumption + battery charging + network surplus

Sunny day, high consumption: panels produce → also for consumption, plus battery/mains replenishment

Evening: the battery discharges → the house works autonomously

Night with a dead battery: the network takes over the consumption

Power failure: hybrid inverter isolates the house from the grid, supplies from the battery

Total system efficiency

From the panels to the wall outlet:

• Panels: 22% light capture efficiency → 78% heat loss (unavoidable)
• DC cables: 99% transmission
• MPPT: 99% extraction
• Inverter: 97% conversion
• Total system efficiency: ~21% of incident light reaches the consumer

La EcoSolaris we design turnkey systems with all optimized components. See the catalog.