Which application is a typical direct-coupled PV system used for?

A typical direct-coupled photovoltaic (PV) system is specifically designed to convert solar energy directly into electricity that can be used to power loads without the need for batteries. One of the most common applications for such systems is in water pumping. In a direct-coupled setup, the solar panels are connected directly to a pump, allowing the system to operate when there is sufficient sunlight to drive the pump. This is especially advantageous in remote locations where conventional electricity supply is unavailable, making it a practical solution for agricultural or irrigation purposes.

The direct coupling efficiently utilizes solar power without the additional costs or complexity involved in storing energy in batteries, which is more typical in other systems aimed at different applications. While lighting systems are often used with grid-tied or battery-backed setups to ensure continuous power, water pumping stands out as a primary use case for direct-coupled PV systems.