Residential Solar Energy System Installation
Project Overview:
This case entails the installation of a solar energy system in a large suburban home with a detached garage located in the CF area of Wales. The selected components for this installation are carefully curated to maximize efficiency, performance, and convenience for the homeowner.
Selected Components:
- Master Inverter: Solar Edge 6kW EV Inverter
- Slave Inverter: Solar Edge 6kW Inverter
- DC-coupled Solar Edge Batteries 9.7kWh (x4)
- Solar Edge Home Hot Water Controller
- 29 Alpha Pure Series 400W All Black Panels
- 29 Solar Edge P404 Optimisers
The homeowner availed themselves of the Solar Edge Upgrade Scheme, upgrading the standard 6kW inverter to a 6kW ‘Home Hub.’ This enhancement grants access to the ‘Home Backup Interface,’ enabling automatic utilization of full power backup from the batteries in the event of a complete loss of mains power.
Customer Requirements:
The client sought a fully compatible system that seamlessly communicates with all components through a unified platform, including EV chargers and Immersion Diversion. Specific requirements included comprehensive panel monitoring, showcasing the performance and production of each individual panel. Additionally, the system needed to optimise off-peak tariff charging during winter months when production is lower, maximising the utilisation of stored energy during peak tariff times.
Optimisers’ Role:
Optimisers play a crucial role in this installation by eliminating power loss due to shading. These devices segregate individual panels, ensuring that an underperforming panel does not impact the overall performance of the string. This feature allows the system to operate consistently and efficiently.
Furthermore, optimisers provide flexibility in installation, allowing for different tilts and orientations. This capability facilitates collaboration across multiple roofs, accommodating variations in pitch or orientation to achieve optimal positioning.
Software Integration:
The system’s software, accessible through a user-friendly app, empowers the homeowner to:
- Track production and energy consumption
- Monitor battery levels
- Control EV charging to suit their schedule
- Manage Smart Energy add-ons
Installer’s Experience:
Our experience over several years with Solar Edge has been marked by efficiency and compliance. Technical assistance is readily accessible through WhatsApp Chat Support, catering to the needs of both the installer and the customer. Issues are typically resolved efficiently and promptly.
Warranties:
- Inverters: 12 years as standard (customer opted to extend to 25 years)
- Batteries: 10 years as standard
- Optimisers: 25 years as standard