Tips to Reduce Energy Loss in Your Solar Power System


Energy loss in a solar power system is entirely normal. It happens at any point within the system where energy is created, converted, or transferred—but every watt you lose cuts into your system’s productivity, and that means a reduction in your ROI. With that in mind, reducing the energy lost at every point of your system is critical to maximizing the benefits of your solar power system. Keep reading to get some tips on reducing that energy loss.

Reducing Loss in Solar Panels

There are many factors that can impact the efficiency of your solar panels. Some of these factors are beyond your control, such as the base efficiency of the panels as well as degradation of the panels overtime. However, there are still many things you can do to reduce the amount of energy you lose at the initial production phase of your system:

1.      Regular Cleaning: Keeping panels clean of dust, dirt, debris, and snow can maximize the amount of sunlight the cells are exposed to, improving the efficiency of their solar capture and production.

2.      High-Efficiency Panels: Make sure you’re investing in panels with high initial efficiency ratings, as well as a built-in guarantee regarding their degradation over time. Any manufacturer worth their salt will provide a warranty that ensures the solar panels will maintain a certain level of productivity throughout their lifespan. Be sure to examine those guarantees carefully.

3.      Proper Installation: Finally, make sure that your panels are placed and installed properly. Avoid shaded areas, and position panels to face the sun as much as possible throughout the day.

Inverters

Inverters convert the DC power from your panels into AC electricity for your home to use. Some energy will naturally be lost in the conversion process, but here’s how you reduce those losses:

1.      Choose a High-Quality Inverter: As with panels, it’s important not to choose the cheapest option available. Choose something with a high efficiency rating, preferably above 95%.

2.      Regular Maintenance: Your inverter will operate more efficiently if it’s properly maintained. Clean the intake vents and ensure proper airflow around the inverter to prevent the equipment from overheating.

3.      Match the Sizing: Make sure to match the inverter size to your solar array. This helps to prevent any “clipping” from an undersized inverter, which essentially cuts off your system’s production at the inverter phase.

Wiring

The last place where systems typically lose power is in the wiring itself. Resistance in the wiring can lead to energy loss during the transmission phase, but here are some tips to reduce it:

1.      Use High-Quality Cables: Make sure the wiring you choose offers low resistance and high conductivity.

2.      Minimize Cable Lengths: The less distance your power has to travel, the less energy you’ll use. Reduce the distance between panels and the inverter during installation to decrease resistance.

3.      Secure Connections: Make sure all the wiring’s connections are tight and free from corrosion.

If you’re considering solar, reducing energy loss in your new system begins with choosing high-quality equipment, like Sol-Ark3 phase hybrid inverters, with a high efficiency rating.
Location: United States

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