Design – Solar PV systems can be built catering to different needs. Here are a few commonly available options –
-
Grid-Tied Systems where the house is connected to the main power network or the national grid.
-
Off-Grid Solar PV Systems are self contained systems that store power in batteries and release it when Solar PV Panels are not producing enough power.
-
A Hybrid Solar PV System is connected to the grid for exporting power as well as batteries to handle power cuts and store power for local use.
-
Batteryless Solar photovoltaic systems – This is where the generated energy is supplied to the appliances directly .
Choose the one that meets your needs.
Installation – Solar PV systems consist of the following components –
-
PV Array : collection of PV modules or PV Cells that convert sunlight to electricity.
-
Mounting and wiring Systems : systems or components needed to integrate solar modules into the physical and electrical design of the home
-
System monitors or meters : display devices showing the system performance.
-
Off and On Grid Inverters : battery or non-battery backed to export and store energy for reuse. Auxiliary fittings : additional fittings such as surplus power diversion manager for enhanced performance.
Location – This is a major factor that affects the performance of any solar PV system.
-
Choose a system that goes with the structural design of your house.
-
Select a location(many people prefer south) on your roof-top where there is no or less shade during the day time.
-
Get the system installed in accordance with the orientation of your house and the angle of sunlight from there to get maximum output.
-
Make a brief study about the weather conditions of your location and inform your PV dealer about it.
Financial and quality Considerations –
-
Make a survey about the cost of PV systems available from different dealers.
-
Study about their quality and make; if needed take the advice or help of your most trusted electrician or engineer.
-
As much as possible gather information about company reputation, warranties, terms and conditions of sale, performance of the product and service efficiency.
-
Finally choose the one that fits into your budget and meets most of your expectations while performing.