The first option is to connect solar panels in series, also known as a string system. Traditionally, this is the most commonly used method. It involves connecting solar panels one by one, forming a large circuit. The energy generated in the circuit is transmitted to a single inverter.
OptimaSolar frequently uses Solis inverters. The power received by the inverter is converted from DC to AC voltage, after which it is sent to the meter box. Because electricity always follows the shortest path, the appliances in your home will receive the self-generated power first. Any remaining power that is not immediately used will be sent to the grid. You can monitor the system’s total output via an app on your phone or tablet.
Advantages of Series-Connected Panels
One major advantage of series-connected panels is their cost-effectiveness. Because there are fewer components in your solar panel system, there is less resistance, which results in less energy loss. A string system is ideal for roofs without shading. However, this type of system has a downside: the performance of the entire system is limited by the weakest panel. If one panel fails or develops an issue, it can significantly reduce the output of the whole system.
If your roof is partially shaded for part of the day, a series system is not recommended. If only a few panels are shaded, OptimaSolar offers a great intermediate solution: we install Tigo optimizers behind the shaded panels. This ensures that the rest of the system is not affected by the shading. With this solution, you don’t need to invest in a more expensive parallel system, where each panel requires its own optimizer.
Solar Panels Connected in Parallel
The second option is to connect solar panels in parallel. In this system, each panel is equipped with an optimizer. This setup ensures that the panels do not depend on each other, and the voltage remains optimal. The major advantage of a parallel-connected system is that factors such as shading, dirt, or faults in one or more panels do not affect the performance of the rest of the system. OptimaSolar uses SolarEdge inverters and optimizers for this configuration.
The normal voltage of a solar panel is about 40 volts. The key difference with SolarEdge is the SafeDC™ system, which reduces this to 1 volt in the event of a shutdown or malfunction. This ensures greater safety and efficiency. The output of each panel can be monitored via a dedicated app on your phone.
Microinverters
Finally, the third option involves the use of microinverters. Instead of a central inverter, a microinverter is placed under each panel. If a microinverter or panel fails, it does not affect the energy yield of the other panels, which will continue to provide maximum output. The system can be monitored using an Envoy device, a small box in the meter box.
Another advantage of this system is that it allows you to easily expand your setup in the future by adding more solar panels and microinverters. However, this option is generally more expensive than a series-connected system.
For questions or advice, you can reach us at 0800 – 2468 000 or schedule a no-obligation consultation.
