Whether you’re considering investing in a solar panel or tile setup, or if you already have a solar setup, solar optimisers will allow you to be more efficient with your generated power.
As specialised solar installers, we know better than anyone that the world of solar energy can be overwhelming when you’re not 100% in the know. So, let’s top up your solar knowledge with our full guide to solar panel optimisers.
Solar Power Jargon You’ll Need To Know
Before we delve into optimisers for solar panels, there’s some jargon related to solar power you’ll need to be familiar with first:
- AC – alternating current. This is the type of power that a house or commercial premises will use.
- DC – direct current. This is the type of power that will be generated from a solar panel or solar tile.
- Solar Panel – a traditional solar panel that is mounted to the roof of a building.
- Solar Tile – a style of solar panel designed to function as both a generator of power and as a roof tile.
- Current – is used to refer to the flow of electricity in a circuit, or how much electricity is flowing in a circuit. Measured in amperes.
- PLO (panel level optimisation) – another term used to refer to solar optimisers.
- MLPE (module level power electronics) – another term used to refer to solar optimisers.
- String – a term used to describe when solar panels are set up in series to generate power and charge a solar battery.
What Are Solar Optimisers?
So, you’re here to find out why you should include solar panel optimisers in your solar set up. Let’s start with what they are, and how they work. In short, solar panel optimisers are devices installed into individual solar panels to help your solar tech setup to achieve its full power-generating potential.
When it comes to generating solar energy, the goal should always be to maximise efficiency, and get the most out of your set up. And fittingly, solar optimisers are designed to do just that. They increase the power output of a solar setup by streamlining current transfer between panels.
How Do Solar Panel Optimisers Work?
Optimisers for solar panels function as ‘energy flow management’. They work by monitoring the efficiency of each individual panel, and adjusting the output to increase generative efficiency. Similar to standard solar inverters, solar panel optimisers do this through Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT). This is a technique used in solar systems which adjusts the conditions of the panel system to maximise energy. However, unlike standard solar inverters which optimise a whole panel set up, solar optimisers adjust each individual panel for further increased efficiency and output.
Why Are Solar Optimisers Important?
Optimisers for solar panels are important due to solar panels being set up in a ‘string’ network. The upside of a string design is that it is highly efficient at capturing sunlight to convert into electricity. The downside is that the string of panels is limited by the panel performing at the lowest efficiency.
In essence, if you have four panels operating at 80% capacity and one at 50% capacity, the whole string of panels will be limited to 50% capacity. In bypassing the 50% panel, all your other panels will benefit from an increase in overall efficiency. This is why in some panel setups, solar optimisers are far superior.
So, how do solar optimisers work? They route energy around any underperforming panels, keeping your system running at peak efficiency before charging your solar battery.
With this function, solar panel optimisers can be particularly helpful when one panel is shaded or installed at a less optimal positioning.
Different Types of Solar Optimisers
There are various types of solar optimisers out there from leading brands such as Tigo, but they fall into three different categories:
- Microinverters
- Discrete optimisers
- Smart panels (that use integrated DC optimisers)
Generally, the most expensive solar optimiser option tends to be a microinverter, with the least expensive being smart panels.
The different types of solar panel optimisers are designed for use in different kinds of setups, so it’s always best to talk to a solar tech professional about your personal requirements before deciding what to buy. That’s what we’re here for, after all.
What are the Benefits of Optimisers for Solar Panels?
- Increased Power Output –The main benefit of solar optimisers is that they significantly increase energy efficiency and production.
- Extra Flexibility – Creating opportunity for more flexible design, solar optimisers mean that systems can be efficiently set up in more difficult orientations with tilts or even in shaded areas.
- Enhanced Safety Features – Solar panel optimisers can also improve the safety of solar installations. Many modern systems have upgraded features which have rapid shutdown abilities in the event of a system failure or electrical fire.
- Increased System Lifespan – Unlike traditional solar inverters which can be negatively affected by the lowest performing panel, solar optimisers prevent underperformance or damage of individual panels which ultimately contributes to the longevity of the full solar energy system.
Who Should Invest In Solar Optimisers?
Solar panel optimisers are an optional piece of solar technology in that they aren’t needed for panels to generate electricity. However, investing in optimisers is a great way to get more out of your investment.
We strongly recommend optimisers for those who:
- Have solar panels positioned in the shade for portions of the day cycle.
- Live in climates that are particularly cloudy.
- Want more responsive and robust safety mechanisms in place when a fault is detected.
- Many modern solar panel optimisers have apps with data to monitor the system. So, if you think you’d benefit from detailed analytics about how your system is performing, solar panels with optimisers may be for you.
Wanting To Invest In Solar Technology?
If you want to invest in solar technology, Smartly provides an extensive range of high-quality solar technology to choose from. We provide everything you’d need in one place to set up your solar power array, no matter if you need it for commercial or residential use.
Reach out to Smartly today, and our solar experts will happily advise you on the next steps to take for investing in solar technology.
