Optimisers

What is a solar optimiser, in detail?

A solar optimiser is an electronic device designed to improve the performance of solar PV systems at the level of each individual solar module. Unlike traditional solar systems where solar panels are connected in series or parallel, systems with solar optimisers allow for greater control and optimisation of each panel independently.

A solar optimiser is placed between the solar panels in a PV system and the inverter, which converts the energy generated by the panels into usable electricity. The primary function of a solar optimiser is to maximise energy production by individually adjusting the output of each solar panel. This is especially useful in systems where the panels are located at different orientations, have partial shading, or face varying lighting conditions.

Solar optimisers track the maximum power point of each panel and adjust the voltage and current to ensure that the maximum possible power is being generated, even if other panels are experiencing shading or performance issues. This helps mitigate energy loss due to shading or other unfavourable conditions, ultimately increasing the overall efficiency and performance of the solar system.

In addition to increasing energy production, solar optimisers can also provide real-time monitoring information on the performance of each panel, making it easier to detect problems early and perform maintenance more efficiently.

How does an energy optimiser work?

Below is a detailed description of how the solar optimisers work:

Installation: Each solar optimiser is connected to a specific solar panel. In a typical installation, an optimiser is connected to each panel or groups of panels, depending on the system design. In addition, a central inverter is responsible for converting the direct current (DC) electricity generated by the solar panels into alternating current (AC) usable for the home or the grid.

Individual Monitoring: Each optimiser is equipped with electronic circuits that monitor and control the performance of an individual solar panel. These circuits measure current and voltage in real time, allowing the maximum power point of each panel to be tracked.

Maximising Output: One of the main benefits of solar optimisers is their ability to maximise power output, even in challenging conditions such as partial shading, dirt, varying lighting conditions and different panel orientations. Each optimiser adjusts the output voltage and current of the panel to ensure that it is generating the maximum possible power, regardless of the conditions of the other panels.

Loss Prevention: Solar panels are interconnected in a system, which means that if a single panel is experiencing shading or other problems, it can negatively affect the performance of the entire system. Solar optimisers prevent a decrease in the performance of one panel from affecting the others, preventing significant energy losses.

Safety and Monitoring: Solar optimisers also improve system safety by ensuring that voltages are safe during operation and maintenance. In addition, many systems with solar optimisers offer real-time monitoring capabilities that allow owners and installers to monitor the individual performance of each panel through applications or online platforms.

In short, solar optimisers are devices that attach to each solar panel in a PV system to maximise energy production and mitigate the negative effects of shading and other factors that can affect performance. They provide greater individualised control and monitoring, which contributes to more efficient and reliable overall solar system performance.