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In recent years, solar energy has risen to the top of the list of renewable energy sources, offering a clean, sustainable solution to our growing energy demands. One of the most popular solar power applications is rooftop solar power systems.The components of a rooftop solar system include solar PV panels, mounting hardware, inverters, metres, and other parts.
Solar panels
They are usually referred to as photovoltaic (PV) modules, and are the heart of any solar rooftop system. Multiple solar cells make up solar panels, which use sunlight to generate direct current (DC) power. Semiconducting components used to make these cells, including silicon, produce an electric field when exposed to sunlight. The quantity and placement of solar panels depends on the amount of electricity needed and the rooftop space that is available. There are many types of solar panels available in the market and each have different efficiencies, life, look and heat resistance.
Solar Inverter
The quality of the AC power you receive and the types of loads that can be powered by solar energy are both determined by inverters, which are a crucial part of your rooftop solar PV system. Different inverters support varying current requirements, which has an impact on the types of machinery that can be powered by solar energy. The only significant part of your solar power system that has to be replaced during its lifespan is the inverter. You can choose different type of Inverters according to your needs and requirement. There are different types of Inverters - string inverters, micro inverters and power optimizers. Choosing the right one means optimal performance of your entire rooftop solar.
Mounting Structures
Solar panels are mounted to rooftops using mounting structures, which give them the support they require. These mounting structures need to be strong, impervious to corrosion, and designed to survive a range of weather conditions. There are a number of mounting solutions available, including flush mounts, tilt mounts, and ballasted mounts, depending on the style of roofing and installation preferences.
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Meter
The amount of power produced by the solar rooftop system is measured by metering equipment, which provides useful information for billing and monitoring needs.
1. Net meter: A net metre is installed in a rooftop solar system to track the electricity flow between the solar panels and the grid. The excess electricity produced by the solar panels is fed back into the grid, where it is measured by the net metre.
2. Generation meter: A rooftop solar system's generation meter counts the total electricity the solar panels produce. It monitors the generation of energy over time, usually in kilowatt-hours (kWh). The solar inverter, which transforms the DC power from the panels into usable AC power, is connected to the generating metre.
Battery system
The rooftop solar system can be equipped with a battery back up which enables the system to work even during power outages and stores excess power generated by the system in case of off-grid systems. In most cases, lithium ion batteries are the most preferred for rooftop solar systems as they are affordable. Adding battery to the system, adds to the cost and complexity of the system on one hand and on the other, they make you independent of the grid making them suitable for large farms in rural India.
Balance of system
In addition to solar panels and inverters, a solar rooftop system includes a number of balance of system (BOS) components that guarantee the system's reliable operation and security.
1. Earthing Protection : To protect both the system and its users, rooftop solar systems must have earthing protection. All metal parts, including solar panels, frames, mounting frameworks, and inverters, must be connected to the ground. With this connection, the risk of electrical shocks, fires, and equipment damage is reduced as electrical faults and lightning strikes can safely dissipate into the ground.
2. Cables : In rooftop solar systems, cables are essential because they transport the electricity produced by the solar panels. They are often constructed from strong, high-quality materials that can survive weather changes and outdoor environments. Solar cables include double insulation for enhanced protection and are UV resistant.
Of all these components, solar panels and solar inverter account for about 75% of the system cost and hence choosing them wisely is very crucial.
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