This paper describes a design method and characteristics analysis of the 3 kW grid-connected photovoltaic power generation system to establish the basic application technology of photovoltaic systems. The design specification of a 3 kW photovoltaic power generation system including a DC/AC inverter is suggested to investigate the system performance for grid connection. The results of the demonstration test from February to October show that the system with utilization rate up to 17% has reliable operation characteristics and is useful for peak-shaving of utility power.