How Do Solar Panel Optimisers work?
With the increased interest in solar energy, Australia and the world are seeing more and more developments in solar technology, including solar panel optimisers.
Solar energy, which does not create nasty greenhouse gas emissions, like coal and gas, quickly becomes a star amongst energy sources given its completely renewable nature. Drawing only on the sun, solar is undoubtedly becoming the energy resource of the future.
This blog will consider solar panel optimisers. We will answer all of your burning questions including: what are solar panel optimisers? What do they work? How can I benefit from optimisation? Captain Green has completed the research, so you don’t have to!
What Is Solar Panel Optimisation?
Solar Panel Optimisation, also known as Panel Level Optimisation (PLO), is an extra feature that can be added to your solar panel installation. As a single module added to each solar panel, the technology serves to optimise the power output from each of your solar panels individually.
Most solar panel systems are connected in what are called “strings”. Each string will have several panels that are connected in a set. In this set, if one of your solar panels is not working at its optimal capacity, the other panels will only work to the level of their strongest acting panel. This may be due to the fact that one of your panels might be under a large tree, or it may not be as clean as the others due to dirt and debris.
As your string of panels is only as strong as its weakest link, having a shaded panel, in turn, restricts the current which travels through the set, ultimately leading to a decrease in energy output. For example, if a string of panels has one panel working at 60% capacity, then the other panels in the string will also perform at 60% capacity. This is where your solar panel optimiser comes in handy!
A solar panel optimiser is a device that can be added to one or all panels in a string. The optimiser’s main objective is to increase the overall output of the solar installation by bypassing the panel that is not working at total capacity. This allows your system to operate to its full potential regardless of a shaded panel, therefore resulting in the best energy production for you and your home.
Are There Different Options of Solar Panel Optimisers?
YES! To achieve solar panel optimisation, there are three different options when it comes to optimisers:
- Microinverters.
- Smart Panels (Integrated DC Optimisers).
- Discrete Optimisers.
Each of these will create an additional cost to your solar panel installation. Whilst these all produce the same outcome and allow you to bypass the “shaded” panel not generating optimal energy, they all have various features. Depending on the system, you will need to determine which solar panel optimiser is best for you. If you are unsure, why not call one of our friendly staff at Captain Green to discuss options.
Who Can Install A Solar Panel Optimiser?
When it comes to solar panel optimisers, we highly recommend you have a professional install them. If you are yet to purchase a system, you can include it in your final purchase and have it installed at the same time as your solar panel array. If you already have a system installed, you can hire a solar panel electrician to fit the module. A professional has the experience and expertise in their field – if you are going to spend the money on the item, don’t risk installing it yourself!
Will Solar Panel Optimisers Still Work Under Extreme Weather Conditions?
Yes! Just like your solar panels, solar panel optimisers are designed to work in extreme environmental conditions. Made from durable material, these modules will help equalise the power of your panels. Whilst they may not be as efficient on severe weather days where there is not much sun, this is due to the energy input with little natural light reaching the panels.
Are Solar Panel Optimisers Worth It?
As an additional feature to your solar panel system, solar panel optimisers will cost more than just a solar panel system due to the extra material required. However, at Captain Green, we feel the advantages far outweigh a slight price increase in optimisers.
Suppose you have a system that is being affected by shading or want to make your system more efficient, this is when solar panel optimisers are a suitable choice for your property. The initial upfront cost of an optimiser will most likely be offset by a speedier return on investment, due to consistently increased efficiency over time.
A solar panel optimiser does just that – optimises the current that travels along the strings of solar panels so that no matter how the other panels are performing, you will achieve the maximum power production. Optimisers allow your system to generate a greater output of energy from your solar panels.
As a relatively inexpensive additional feature, optimisers provide bang for your buck and ensure underperforming panels do not adversely affect your energy production. For more information and discuss your solar panel options, contact Captain Green, your one-stop-shop for solar panel system selection, installation and maintenance!
