The calculation and study of transient phenomena occurring when a photovoltaic (PV) source is applied to RLC circuits are presented in this paper. The method of approach adopted is based on an incremental model of the photovoltaic generator as opposed to the usual numerical integration algorithm for the solution of the governing non-linear differential equations. Such an approach is of particular advantage in many respects. On the quantitative basis, it ensures both accuracy and numerical stability even if a large time step is used. On the qualitative basis, it gives the ability to have a better insight into the response evolution and visualizes the effects that the various parameters may have on the nature of the transient response. Finally, it reveals some interesting and useful features about the transient behavior of a passive load driven by a PV generator, so that conclusions from the engineering viewpoint can be drawn.