choosing solarpv

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.