For all of human history we have looked to the sun as a source of energy and inspiration. From ancient civilizations harnessing sunlight for warmth and agriculture to the modern technological marvels of solar panels, the journey of solar energy spans millennia. Today, as the world seeks sustainable alternatives to fossil fuels, solar power stands at the forefront of the renewable energy revolution. In this article, we delve into the major components of solar energy systems—solar panels, inverters, and solar racking equipment—exploring their roles, evolution, and significance in shaping the future of energy production.
Photovoltaic Solar Panels (or Modules)
A solar panel is device that converts sunlight into electricity using photovoltaic (PV) cells. PV cells are made of semiconductor materials that excite electrons when they are exposed to light (also known as the Photovoltaic Effect). Light is composed of photons which are a form of electromagnetic radiation (or energy). When absorbed by the cells, this energy creates electrical charges that move within the cells creating the flow of Direct Current (DC) electricity. Modern solar panels have more than 100 cells in them! Multiple panels can be wired together to form an array – which is why they are also referred to as modules.
There are many different companies that develop and manufacture solar panels for various residential and commercial applications. While you can use residential panels on commercial installs and vice versa, there are a few primary differences between the two. Residential panels tend to be more aesthetically pleasing, utilizing black frames and cells with black backing so that the panel looks like a TV screen or phone from afar. They also tend to be smaller both physically and output wise. That way they are easier to carry and install on residential homes. Commercial panels on the other hand are physically larger, and produce more but are also typically less aesthetically pleasing (utilizing silver aluminum racking and a less appealing backing). Commercial modules are commonly installed on the ground, or on large flat roofs where they are lifted up there.
Solar Power Inverters
The inverter is arguably the most important component of the solar system. Because solar panels generate Direct Current (DC) electricity the energy need to be inverted to Alternating Current (AC) which is used in most residential homes and businesses. Without the inverter the energy produced by the panel would be useless, in most cases. There are two primary types of solar inverters – micro inverters, and string inverters. Both inverters accomplish the same goal but each have their own pros and cons. Let’s look at the major differences between the two.
Micro inverters
At 603 Solar we prefer installing systems with micro inverters! With a micro inverter system each panel gets its own dedicated inverter. These inverters can either come attached to the panel or connected during install. Because each panel gets its own inverter, they can act independently from each other. If one panel or micro inverter fails it will not affect the others meaning a minimum loss in production / savings. Furthermore, because they act independently of each other micro inverters are ideal if there are multiple arrays facing different directions with different pitches. Micro inverters are also very easy to troubleshoot and service because they are only a small part of the system and easy to swap out. Enphase Energy is a California based Micro inverter manufacture that have been working with since we started in 2018. Over 99% of our arrays utilize their inverters and they come with a 25 year full coverage warranty.
String Inverters
A string inverter system utilizes a single (or multiple depending on the size of the array) centralized inverter for the entire array. With a traditional string inverter system, the entire string of panels that are wired together can be affected by one another. If part of the array is shaded or broken, it’s possible the entire string can stop producing (known as the Christmas tree light effect). This problem is solved by installing a component known as a Power Optimizer, which allows the panels to act independently of each other (like a micro inverter). While the string inverter unit itself is often mounted near the main panel and easy to swap out if you run into an issue your entire array may be out until the inverter can be serviced.
Solar Racking Equipment
Solar racking equipment are the components of the system that either attaches it to the roof or ground mount posts. All roof racking equipment is made of high-quality aluminum and often painted black to match the color of modern solar panels. Other than its primary purpose of mounting panels and micro inverters, the racking equipment is also designed to allow for air flow under the array, as well as prevent leaks (if installed on a roof). There are many different racking types that work with all sorts of different roofs. Even though most solar racking manufactures make a very similar product it’s important to use one that has a long track record of good products. At 603 Solar we use racking from a company called “Iron Ridge” who has been making solar racking components for over 20 years!
Panels, inverters, and racking are the three primary components of a solar array! It’s important to understand the pro and cons of the various system components so that you can design a system that offers the best production and return on investment.
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