Solar Panel Megathread

[Quint]

Please explain why you need 2 'strings'. (I assume a string is an independant curcuit)

 

Could they not all go thro' the inverter at the same time?

 

Why is this different from (say) having a 4kw system by having 2x2kw systems?

 

Thanks!

 

You dont have to have 2 strings - this was just a solutions to a potential problem.

 

You probably know that any shading on the panels effects the performance of all the panels in that string, so if you have a section of panels which become shaded at some point in the day it may beneficial to have them on 2 strings to get optimum performance from the panels which do not have shading.

 

The only difference from having 2 x 2kwh systems is your only paying for one inverter.

[Cyclone]

Depending on the brand and quality of your inverter, to solve your East/West issue certain inverters will switch automatically.

 

For example if we were to put 2 strings of panels on your roof, one string on the east and one string on the west our inverter would switch automatically depending on which string is generating the most power.

 

Basically string one will generate in the morning, and string 2 will generate in the afternoon.

 

Hope that helps? Please feel free to drop me an email or give us a call on 0800 093 8910

 

Edit - question already answered. Thanks.

Edited August 16, 2011 by Cyclone

[esme]

Please post any and all solar panel related information and queries in here.

[esme]

Mod Note

 

Please post any further Solar Panel related posts in the megathread

 

Solar Panel Megathread

[Quint]

What a great idea, thanks esme.

[Jeffrey Shaw]

Maybe merge all the other 'solar' threads here, to save information being replicated?

[paulisat20]

Voltage Optimisation is the way forward, the VX1 VPHASE UNIT can cut upto 10% off your electricity bill)

 

VPhase is the smart new way to cut your energy costs immediately without changing your supplier or your lifestyle.

 

By reducing and managing the voltage coming into your home, a VPhase device will ensure many of your electrical appliances use less electricity and cost less to run. It will also lower your carbon emissions.

 

The UK electricity distribution network operates at a nominal 230V, although in practice average voltages are more likely to range between 240V and 245V. The VPhase unit manages voltage to a stable level, normally 220V in the UK, regardless of the incoming supply voltage.

 

The amount of energy saved is device specific, for example: testing by VPhase on fridges and freezers shows 17%, 15% on normal light bulbs and 10% on energy saving light bulbs. One digital cordless phone showed an extraordinary saving of 44%. Savings will vary dependent incoming voltage and individual devices.

 

Further savings can be made on washing machines, tumble driers, dishwashers, televisions and numerous other electrical appliances across the whole house.

 

Typically, whole house savings are in the region of 10% - which means, household electricity bills will be around 10% less each year.

 

Unlike Smart Meters, which require a change in lifestyle, or solar and wind power that are focused on renewable energy production as opposed to preventing energy waste, VPhase Voltage Optimisation is a fit and forget solution that once installed will operate silently and unobtrusively, lowering and stabilising household voltage, saving money, reducing CO2 emissions and preventing energy waste.

Technical Energy Uk Ltd 01142 848221

[Jeffrey Shaw]

Whether all that's so or not, what does it have to do with solar panels?

[paulisat20]

Solar PV and VPhase voltage optimisation are two complementary technologies that can benefit from being installed alongside each other, reducing the overall payback period and improving the return on investment for the consumer.

 

The facts

Solar PV installations currently have widespread appeal largely due to the generous Feed in Tariffs available.

 

VPhase voltage optimisation devices can be installed alongside solar PV systems.

 

Installing a VPhase with a solar PV system, reduces the payback period and improves the return on investment.

Solar PV + VPhase = added value

Solar PV and VPhase together result in a more energy efficient home

[littlestar]

Here is a link to a solar panel installer;

 

http://www.solarpvsheffield.com/

 

Really good company!!