Shading Factors

We all might look at roof and think differently about it – do we need to consider the chimney, the velux, the dormer windows, for example, some might think there are no shading factors while others might think the opposite. Well when it comes down to installing a solar pv system we need to make sure we know what we’re talking about. Any hint of shading on any part of the panels will bring the solar pv system, but, there are ways to combat this.

Here at Contact-Solar we work with two products that will take your solar system to the next level. The products I’m talking about are Solar Edge Optimisers and Enphase Micro Inverters. These two products make the panels work independently of one another. So where traditionally you’ve got a string inverter and the panels work in synchronisation with each other with Solar Edge Optimisers and Enphase Micro Inverters each panel works off its own merits. Think of it like this, a traditional string inverter is similar to your Christmas tree lights once one goes down the whole lot go down, which when you’re generating you’re own electricity isn’t a viable option. So by installing Solar Edge Optimisers and Enphase Micro Inverters if one panel goes down the others don’t and they system still works to capacity.

The disadvantage to installing Solar Edge Optimisers or Enphase Micro Inverters is that they are more costly than a traditional string inverter but you have that insurance policy and the potential of boosting the output of your system by up to 20%, so the question you need to ask yourself is do you compromise on cost or quality.

For more information or to discuss any of the products mentioned in todays blog give one of our friendly renewables experts a call on 0800 201 4527 for a fully tailored no obligation quote.

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