1. Photovoltaic systems: structures and typology

At the origin and heart of photovoltaic (PV) systems, logically, lies a photovoltaic generator, the most visible part of these systems, which are increasingly present in our landscapes, as illustrated in figure 1 by photographs of some typical systems, which we'll describe in more detail later. The visible presence of these collector-converters, like that of wind turbines, reminds us of our societies' dependence on energy for their development even more concretely than gas stations or electricity poles. In addition to the photovoltaic generator, these photovoltaic systems are indissociable from the power electronics that are also omnipresent to ensure all the functions essential to their smooth operation and energy management.