DC POWER OPTIMISERS
Over the years Inverter technology has improved, but not quite enough. The main disadvantage is that the solar panels are still connected in series, so shaded or failed solar panels will affect the yield of the whole string.
Optimisation increases the energy output by splitting the system from series to parallel. We offer two options for optimisation both come with online monitoring platforms.
TIGO OPTIMISERS
Revolutionary optimisers from Tigo work with any panel and any inverter. You can use as little as one optimiser on a system - ideal if you have a low number of shaded panels or a few panels on another orientation. Only those panels that are shaded, or those on a different roof, need to be optimised and can be mixed in a string with non-optimised panels.
Tigo has both a junction-box replacement optimiser for use with compatible panels (our Perlight range) or retrofits frame-mounted optimisers for use with most other panels.
SOLAREDGE
Energy loss due to panel mismatch is averted by performing MPPT for each panel individually. String voltage is kept fixed at all times, so strings can be combined regardless of length, tilt, or type of panels used. Continuous performance measurement enables online monitoring and fault detection at panel-level. Installer and firefighter safety is enhanced by closing off the DC voltage whenever the inverter is powered down.
To achieve the above without increasing the cost of the system, compared to standard inverters, SolarEdge provides panel optimisers as well as its own inverter and monitoring web portal. The outcome is applicable for a large range of applications, from residential roofs to vast scale solar farms.
THE FINAL VERDICT ON DC POWER OPTIMISERS
Both brands provide high quality and safe DC power optimisation solutions. The Tigo solution is simple, flexible, and cost effective. On the other hand, SolarEdge is complete and robust. Either option is guaranteed to excel your solar system’s performance, and manage panel shading. If you are looking at a Tigo or SolarEdge solution for your Solar PV Project and want to debate further, get in touch with our Green Team! You can reach us directly on 07840 734082, or by clicking the “Enquire Now” button.
