Photovoltaic modules release power depending on the amount of sun that hits them, meaning the power they generate fluctuates based on how much sun strikes the module. Although solar technology is becoming much more reliable, it’s still not a source of predictable electricity. Here’s how a power optimizer can boost your solar system.
A power optimizer helps condition the electricity wind turbines and photovoltaic modules produce. It acts as a DC-to-DC converter for every module and utilizes maximum power point tracking (MPPT) technology.
This technology measures the PV modules’ or cells’ output in an array and uses the proper electric load or resistance to generate as much power as they can in an array.
Consequently, a power optimizer enables each panel in an array to generate as much power as possible and reduce or increase the module’s output voltage to complement the voltage amount demanded by the inverter tied to them.
How a Power Optimizer Works
By removing the string-design limitations that can reduce the PV system’s size, power optimizers enable designers to affix more modules on the rooftop, reducing electricity bills. A power optimizer deploys a few electronics to the rooftop to cater to the DC to DC and MTTP conversion, taking advantage of the centrally located inverter at the string’s end.
This lets installers reduce hardware, slash costs and improve reliability. Paired with energy efficient fixtures like low voltage LED deck lights, your property can further reduce energy usage, maximizing the output of your solar array.
When the sun hits your solar panel, it produces DC electricity. If your panels are strung together, the DC power goes to a central string inverter, converting that power into AC energy for home consumption. While this setup may work well with most solar systems, your power output won’t be as good if your roof has partial shading problems or several orientations. This is because the worst-performing panel’s performance restrains the string of panels production.
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The highest power you can generate with each panel differs in such complex solar panel installation challenges. This is because the power amount each panel creates depends on factors such as the amount of sunlight, the temperature and the power load special features.
When a panel faces multiple directions or is shaded, these factors vary across an array. Using maximum power tracking point, a power optimizer accounts for this issue. It tracks the highest amount of power in every panel in real-time, then smooths and conditions the power each panel produces before sending it to the inverter. This makes the inverter create more energy.
To achieve this, you can affix the power optimizers to each solar panel’s back in your array. This converts these panels into smart modules by tracing their maximum output and adjusting their voltage before sending the electricity to the central inverter. This results in optimized performance for each panel in your solar system despite orientation to the sun, shade issues or damage to the panels.
Benefits of Power Optimizers
Counters the Solar Panels’ Aging Effect
With time, solar panels age and their efficiency lessens. Since the efficiency reduction isn’t the same for all solar panels, the differences can significantly impact the solar system’s overall performance. Power optimizers can improve individual solar panels’ performance, reducing overall performance issues.
Eliminates Module Mismatches
While solar panel manufacturers try producing homogeneous operating modules for a specific production range, there could still be inconsistencies between panels. Power optimizers eliminate the mismatch, ensuring similar operating modules.
Increases Efficiency in Partially Shaded Panels
DC power optimizers enable you to harvest more power with partially shaded panels or roofs facing several angles. If your array is partially shaded, a power optimizer will help generate more energy while increasing efficiency.
Ensures Individual Panel Monitoring
Power optimizers fall into module-level power electronics which can gather and enter solar energy production data, including output voltage and maximum efficiency from every PC module into the cloud. This reports power and financial performance data to you in a real-time app.
A power optimizer is a smart tool that notifies you when your solar system is not performing as it should, depending on the current weather conditions. You can call your installer to inspect your solar system to ensure everything is working efficiently.
Endnote
A power optimizer can help improve your solar system’s efficiency. Consider your inverter’s existing capacity and efficiency, size and budget when choosing a power optimizer.
Feature image: Mariana Proença; Image 1: Kindel Media
