Solar Panels and the Components of a Solar Power System

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Solar power and photovoltaic solar panels are just one way of producing clean energy but one in which we have a technology well suited to producing some, is not all, of the electricity requirements for Australian homes.

The aim of solar panels is to maximise exposure to solar radiation and convert as much of this energy as possible to usable electricity. Read on for a more detail on the performance of panel and systems or check out some of the benefits of solar power.

Solar Panels and Their Uses

There are three main types of solar panel – monocrystalline, polycrystalline and thin film, also known as amorphous panels. Each has different properties as a result of the way in which they are manufactured and therefore various uses.

Monocrystalline is the most common as it has the highest energy conversion efficiency so for a limited roof space it is often well suited. Polycrystalline has a slightly lower power efficiency but has a lower manufacturing cost and does perform somewhat better at higher temperatures.

Amorphous or thin film is a lower cost panel but with a lower conversion efficiency requires a greater roof space to generate the same output.

Shading can be a significant issue in some locations as a small amount of tree shade on a solar panel can drastically reduce the power output. That’s why at SolarQuip we like to visit every property to carry out a comprehensive assessment of your needs and unique location.

One size does not fit all – give us a call or request a quote.

Installing a Solar Power System

Solar panels are easily installed on most metal or tile roofs with a long lasting aluminum framing system. Panels are then connected into 'strings', groups of panels with a wiring configurations to match the DC voltage of the inverter.

For your safety, SolarQuip installs circuit breakers on the roof before running highly efficient power cables to the inverter. An inverter is designed either to work in a grid connect system or in off grid situation with battery power supply.

Again to maximise the efficiency of your system, a ‘maximum power point tracker’ is used to make sure your panels are at their best voltage range (see chart). Managing this sweet spot in the panels voltage can add significantly to the performance of the power system.

Along with DC circuit breakers, AC circuit breakers are installed between the inverter and your electricity distribution board. The inverter will convert the power of your PV system to match that of the electricity grid so that the system is supplying energy matched to your home electricity needs.