U.S. Department of Energy - Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy

Solar Energy Technologies Program

Solar Electric Case Studies: PV in Action

Ascension Technology developed and installed PV systems producing about 20 kilowatts for a ranger station and biological research equipment in the Mona Passage, midway between Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic. This included two separate ac power systems serving residential and community facilities and separate systems for water pumping, navigation aids, a residence, and telecommunications.

These case studies show how photovoltaic (PV) energy systems can be used today in a variety of ways to provide clean, reliable electricity. With continued research and development, the cost of PV-generated electricity should be even more competitive with conventional electric power in the next 5-10 years.

• Communications: A PV-Powered Telephone Signal Booster in Nevada
• Water Pumping: PV-Powered Water for Cattle in South Dakota
• Remote Homes: PV Power for a Modern Home in Florida
• Remote Villages: Village PV Power in Mexico
• Grid-Connected PV: PV Power for an Energy-Efficient Home in Massachusetts
• Utility Applications: Power for a Utility Substation in California

And see these additional interesting examples of the ways that solar energy is used to better our lives:

• WisconSUN Solar Use Network projects
• Advanced Buildings Technologies and Practices
• High-Performance Buildings
• U.S. Department of Energy's State Energy Program (SEP) Special Projects (by state, technology, and year)