The Essential Factors You Need to Consider when Installing Solar Panels

Published on: 06 December 2018 Last Updated on: 29 February 2020
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Solar panel systems have taken the world by storm, and it’s not just in ‘sunny’ countries like Australia where solar panel installations have become immensely popular. In the UK, more homeowners and householders are opting for solar panels as well, and the fact that the cost of installing your own solar panel system has gone down tremendously in the last few years has contributed to its popularity. But if you are thinking of having a solar panel system installed, there are some major considerations you need to think about as well. For one, solar panel installations need to be done in the proper way and with the proper accreditation in order for you to take advantage of the government’s Feed-in Tariff programme. What else do you need to consider, then? Here’s a list of the essential factors you need to consider when installing solar panels in your home.

The investment:

Truth be told, having a solar panel installation isn’t a cheap affair. It is an investment, and it’s best you know this from the start. But the good news is that the cost of a typical solar panel installation has already gone down by as much as 50% compared to the cost of a system eight years ago. But here’s the thing: while it’s not cheap, you are guaranteed to recover your investment over time, especially since your energy bills are going to be lower and you can even earn extra money through the Feed-in Tariff scheme. With the scheme, whatever extra energy you have that you don’t use can be sold back to the grid, and you will receive payments from the government every quarter for this.

The supply of energy:

Your solar panel installation will still work quite well even if you are in the UK, with its inclement and unpredictable weather. Of course, the system will work best during the sunnier seasons, but it doesn’t mean that it won’t produce energy whilst it’s winter time or when it’s cloudy. But while it is still within reason for you to expect your system to generate energy, even on cloudy days, you can never really tell how much the system will produce. What you can expect, though, is that your energy bills will definitely be reduced – sometimes by as much as 40 to 50%.

Where to place them:

The placement of your solar panels is of utmost importance as well, so you also have to consider this, as confirmed by the specialists in solar in Manchester from Atlantic Renewables. Whilst your solar panels don’t require direct sunlight to work, they will have to be installed by a professional, preferably one who is accredited by the MCS (this is so you can get your Feed-in Tariff). The location of the solar panels matter, and so does the angle of placement. Make sure other buildings or structures or trees don’t overshadow your roof; but if this is the case, you have the option to install your solar panels on the ground as well.

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AC Vs DC

Solar Battery System Types – AC Vs DC-coupled

Before you choose the right solar battery, you first need to learn what AC and DC coupling means. Your solar battery storage system determines how effective your solar air conditioning will be. There are two main ways to connect your power sources when you add battery storage to your solar energy system. AC and DC are the two main types of voltages used to conduct electricity. Let’s find out what differentiates these two battery systems. What is the Difference Between AC and DC Power? AC stands for Alternating Current, and it means electric power first flows in one direction and then the other. This is the type of electric current on the main grid, and it’s suitable for your solar air-con. DC power, on the other hand, stands for Direct current, and it means electricity flows in one direction only. This is the electric power that your solar panels generate from sunlight. The energy stored in your home’s solar battery is usually DC power. Since your solar panels generate DC power and your solar air conditioning and other home appliances need AC power, you need a solar inverter to convert this energy to AC electricity. There are three main types of solar inverters in the market; Traditional Inverters This first type of inverter is also known as the central inverter because it draws power from your solar panels. If you have a solar air conditioner at home, you’ll need this kind of converter to keep it running. It is usually a box that’s installed next to your home’s breaker box. It functions by combining all DC energy from your solar panels and converting it to DC power so that you can use your solar air conditioner Malaysia. Micro-Inverters The second type of inverter is an in-built component on individual solar panels. They are small inverters found on the backside of your panels. They allow your panels to individually and independently convert the harnessed DC power to AC energy. DC-Optimizers Lastly, we have the DC-optimizers that are devices that also go at the back of individual solar panels. Unlike Micro-inverters, they don’t convert DC to AC. Instead, they optimize conditions to ensure your home’s central inverter has an easy time converting DC to AC power. These converters work in a hybrid solar energy system that includes a traditional central inverter and in-built solar panel inverters. Is a Battery DC or AC? Batteries, like solar panels, store and produce DC power. Since your home’s electricity is AC, it means batteries in devices have converters that turn the AC power to DC energy. DC batteries use the same solar inverters that your home uses to convert the stored DC energy to AC power. AC batteries, on the other hand, have an in-built inverter that directly does the conversion. AC Vs DC -Storage Architecture Comparing the strengths and weaknesses of these two battery storage systems helps you choose what is best for your home. DC-Coupled Systems The DC-coupled system is designed to connect directly to the main grid the same way as your solar panels. In which case, a hybrid inverter is required to create a synergy between the solar battery and the solar panels. Strengths There is less energy loss because it’s a one-way conversion. Your system makes you eligible for Net Energy Metering if your solar panels can generate excess energy. It is a simple system which translates to lower costs. It is a smart option for people who’re just beginning their solar energy journey. Weaknesses If you already have a PV system, incorporating it is complex and costly. AC-Coupled Systems The AC-coupled system operates with two solar inverters; a conventional inverter and an additional storage inverter that charges your solar battery. It might seem like a complicated system, but it is very easy to setup. However, as compared to the DC-coupled system, it’s less efficient because it has to be charged. Strengths It is way more flexible than the DC-coupled system. The inclusion of two inverters allows you to adjust the location of the battery at will. It is compatible with all kinds of solar inverters. It is a cost-effective solution for people that already have a PV system. Weaknesses The system is slightly less efficient as compared to the DC-coupled system because of the AC-DC-AC conversion. The system will have more points of failure because you’ll have one inverter in a different location. Which Is Better for your Solar and Storage Needs? If you already have a solar energy system at home, you should go with the AC-coupled system because it’s flexible and easy to set up. However, if you’re just starting your solar journey, you should go with the DC-coupled system; if you generate excess energy, you get to sell it to the main grid. Final Thoughts Understanding the difference between these two solar battery systems helps you make the right purchase. Ensure that you work with a professional who understands what is best for your home. Solar energy systems are here to stay, and you might as well jump on the bandwagon because it’s a system that pays for itself. Read Also: What You Should Know about Solar Energy for Schools Benefits The Benefits of Solar Lighting in a Nutshell Everything You Need to Know About Portable Solar Power What To Do When Your AC Unit Stops Working Ready Rooftops – How to Install Solar Panels

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portable solar system

Advantages of Using a Portable Solar Generator

Power, is an important aspect of our daily lives, considering a large number of power-consuming appliances and gadgets we have in our homes. Power can be expensive, if not well managed and sometimes inaccessible during prolonged periods of power failure. Power outages have become the new normal and this call for preparedness. Generators, in general, are key to this preparedness as they conveniently supply power when needed. There are a number of generators, however, including solar and gasoline-powered generators. They both pack their advantages and disadvantages alike. Generally, they are a countermeasure to situations of power failures by providing a reliably steady supply of power. In operation, gasoline-powered generators may have harsh environmental implications. As a result, more homeowners are switching to solar generators, which are much safer for the family and environment at large. This article is going to focus on the advantages of using a portable solar generator, in particular. But before we get to that, let us first understand what a solar generator actually is and how it works. What is A Portable Solar Generator? A portable solar generator is a unit comprised of three integrated components, including a generator, a frame, and a battery charger. The solar generator is powered by the sun and this solar energy is harnessed by the solar frame. The energy is stored in the battery for later use. This generator provides sufficient power to adequately supply your appliances and gadgets. It is a convenient resort during power failures. However, its use is not limited to periods of power failure alone, it can also be used to juice up your electronics occasionally and cut down on your electricity costs. Installing a portable solar generator in your home is, therefore, a quite smart and cost-efficient strategy. You should, however, ensure that you find a solar generator that matches your home’s power needs. At PoweredPortableSolar.com, you can get furnished with sufficient information to help you reach an informed decision. Information on solar generator types, capacities and prices go a long way towards determining the ideal choice for your home.  The benefits of using a portable solar generator are immense and some of them are listed below: 1. Green Energy : Solar generators are highly preferred over traditional gas generators for their environment-friendly nature. Entirely powered by the sun, they do not produce harmful emissions associated with traditional gasoline-powered generators which liberate fumes and gases that could be poisonous. Gas generator vapors also are a fire risk as they can easily ignite. With solar generators, harsh environmental implications are eliminated and fire risks, as well as other hazardous implications. 2. Renewable Energy : Solar generators are fully powered by the sun. As long as there is sunlight, this energy can be freely harnessed. Unlike other energy sources that can be easily depleted, this one cannot run out. Harnessing solar energy is a guaranteed process as long as the components of the portable solar generator are suitably integrated. The energy is then stored in the battery which can be used later on to power appliances. Even on days with insufficient sunlight, the energy saved in the battery can be used to power your home. 3. Cost- Efficient : As much as installing solar generators could require significant initial costs, it is cost-efficient in the long run. Portable solar generators enable you to meet your power needs with solar energy, a self-sustaining option. This means a considerable drop in your electricity costs. Normally, after initial installation, there are no more ongoing costs that need to be incurred on the portable solar generators. All you have to do is observe the basic maintenance measures, which are not costly. In most cases, they come down to cleaning them on several occasions. 4. Convenience : They offer convenience, especially during prolonged periods of power outages. Power failures are bound to happen time and again. During bad weather especially, power failures could happen a lot and it could be very frustrating. Having a portable solar generator at hand counters this situation. You can keep your appliances supplied with power for a long period of time with no worries. Their portable nature, on the other hand, enables easy moving and storage when not in use. With no moving parts, they suffer less wear and tear and stay in shape longer. Portable solar generators, as an alternative green, and a self-sustaining power source provides immense benefits to homeowners. Ranging from convenience, cost-efficiency, to renewability, portable solar generators are a great addition to your home. Although initial installation costs could be significant, long-term benefits are definitely worth it. Read Also : Everything You Need To Know About Portable Solar Power What Are Renewable Sources And How To Introduce Them Into Your Household?

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What Is A Solar Park Like? Discover The Heart Of Solar Energy!

What Is A Solar Park Like? Discover The Heart Of Solar Energy!

Hello to all the solar energy enthusiasts! Today, let's dive into the fascinating world of a solar park.  If you've ever wondered what a solar park is like and what makes it work so efficiently, you're in the right place. Join us on this solar journey and discover the secrets behind a solar park, with a special focus on Soltec USA's solar tracking systems. What is a Solar Park? First, let's get some context. A solar park is a large-scale installation where solar panels are used to convert sunlight into electricity.  These parks can vary in size, from small community projects to massive installations supplying energy to thousands of homes. But what makes a solar park so special and efficient?  The answer lies in the combination of advanced technology and smart design. The Infrastructure of a Solar Park We need to know its main components to understand how a solar park works. Here are the key elements: 1. Solar Panels Solar panels are the heart of any solar park. These photovoltaic devices capture the sun's energy and convert it into electricity.  In a typical solar park, thousands of panels are arranged in long rows, all oriented to maximize sunlight capture. 2. Inverters The electricity generated by solar panels is direct current (DC). For this electricity to be useful in our homes and businesses, it needs to be converted into alternating current (AC).  This is where inverters come in. These devices transform DC electricity into AC, making it compatible with the power grid. 3. Solar Tracking Systems This is where the magic really happens. A solar tracking system allows the panels to follow the sun's movement throughout the day.  Instead of remaining stationary, the panels move to maintain optimal orientation to the sun. This can significantly increase the amount of energy produced.  Soltec USA is a leader in this technology, offering high-end solutions that maximize energy efficiency. 4. Transformers and Substations Once the electricity has been converted to AC, it needs to be transmitted to the power grid.  Transformers step up the voltage of the electricity so it can travel long distances without significant losses. Substations manage the distribution of this electricity to different destinations. The Role of Soltec USA's Solar Tracking Systems Solar tracking systems are a vital part of an efficient solar park. Let's delve into how they work and why they are so important. A solar farm has unmatched functionality when it comes to creating sustainable energy resources. But, maintaining a solar farm is equally important in terms of utilizing it efficiency.  One such matter of maintenance is having a solar tracking system for your farm. Here are some of the solar energy tracking functionality which can make running your solar farm even easier. There are three types of solar tracking: Manual Solar Tracking Manual solar checking is the most tedious one in a solar farm. This is when a person has to literally walk towards every solar panel, check the energy level, and then tilt the panel towards the sun from time to time. The solar panel cannot remain at a tilt towards the at all times, as this risks damage. Passive Solar Trackers Passive trackers consist of an internal mechanism consisting of a liquid reaching a boiling point. When one exposes the panel to the solar radiation, the liquid begins to boil. Hence, this is a sign that the saved solar energy is being utilized. During utilization, the liquid evaporates. Once there is no boiling liquid in it, then there is an imbalance in the solar panel. This automatically causes the panel to tilt towards the sun. Automatic Solar Trackers Automatic solar tractors have even higher mechanisms. They consist of electric motors, and hydraulic cylinders which change the position or tilt of the panels on their own. It is a fully automated process with very little human interruptions, which is again limited to cleaning & maintenance (when necessary). This form of automatic solar tractor can be divided into two parts: Single axis solar tracker: This tracks the movement of the sun from east to west, ensuring proper collection of the solar radiation. Double-axis solar tracker: They have two axes that tilt from east to west and north to south. This type of solar tracker is perfect for commercial solar farms that run completely on solar energy. Maximize Collection As a commercial solar farm, you should always opt for the automatic solar tracker, as it improves its collection efficiency. The position of solar radiation changes throughout the day. Mornings are when you get the highest solar radiation from the east. Then as sunset approaches, the strength increases towards the west.  Therefore, a solar radiation only facing one side doesn’t guarantee maximum collection. This is why trackers play such a crucial role. Adaptability If your solar farm is on a higher altitude or a location with heavy clouds, a solar tracker’s adaptability is of great assistance. Thus, an automatic tracker can locate the spot where solar radiation is the highest and collect it efficiently. Gets More Sunlight The sun is up way before we are! Plus, we do not register the solar radiation at dawn and dusk to be strong enough to generate solar power. Turns out they are! Therefore, the tracker will help to efficiently get the most of the sunlight throughout the day.  Advantages of Solar Parks If you are still contemplating whether you should install a solar farm for your personal and commercial purposes, then keep reading. We understand the matter of budget. Yes, installing an entire farm is a matter of high investment. However, understanding the advantages that you can utilize for years to come will definitely make it cost-effective. 1. Clean and Renewable Energy If sustainability is what you are striving towards, then look no further. Fortunately, with the help of modern technology, we are able to utilize a very important natural resource. With further improvements, we are now able to bring that to our everyday domestic usage. With solar-powered everything, you are using clean, renewable energy. This leads to less air pollution, a major decrease in your carbon footprint, and, overall, contributes to a better future. 2. Low Operating Costs Once a solar park is up and running, operating and maintenance costs are relatively low. For example, Soltec USA's tracking systems require minimal maintenance thanks to their robust and efficient design. 3. Job Creation The construction and operation of solar parks create jobs in various areas, from engineering and construction to maintenance and administration. 4. Energy Independence Solar parks can help communities become more energy-independent, reducing their reliance on energy imports and improving energy security. The Final Note! A solar park is a masterpiece of engineering and sustainability, combining solar panels, inverters, transformers, and advanced solar tracking systems.  These components work together to efficiently and sustainably convert sunlight into clean, renewable electricity. Plus, we hope this article was able to provide you with a clear and fascinating insight into the functions o a solar park.  Next time you see a solar installation, you'll know that behind those panels is a complex network of technology. Matched with design that is working tirelessly to harness every ray of sunlight.  The energy of the future is here, and it's brighter than ever! 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