Five Key Considerations in Selecting Your Rooftop Solar PV Components

“Investing in rooftop solar PV systems requires careful consideration of key quality and safety issues to ensure maximum project returns.”

As the demand for clean and renewable energy sources continues to grow, more and more households and businesses are investing in rooftop solar PV systems. However, selecting the right components for your rooftop solar system is crucial to achieving the desired returns on investment. In this article, we’ll explore five key considerations to keep in mind when selecting your rooftop solar PV components.

1. Design: Incorrect Array Layout and Voltage Mismatch To ensure maximum energy output from your solar panels, the array layout must conform to the shadow analysis drawing. String-to-inverter voltage mismatch can also impact energy output. PV Syst/ PV Sol reports should be used to verify proper matching of strings to the MPPT range of the inverter. Onsite matching and post-installation checks can help prevent voltage mismatch.
2. Components: Poor Design and Selection of Structural Material Structural design certification should match the wind zone of your location. Proper material treatment, such as the selection of aluminum alloy or galvanization thickness of galvanized iron, can also prevent structural failure. It is important to confirm that supplied module bill of materials match tested and certified IEC 61215 bill of materials. Acceptance testing by the buyer at the manufacturing facility, including flash tests, EL tests, LID tests, and visual inspections, can also ensure the quality of the modules.
3. Installation and O&M: Incomplete E&L Protection and Improper Handling of Modules Incomplete E&L protection, including inadequate lightning arrestors and insufficient earthing, can pose a safety risk. Soil resistivity in each earth pit should be checked to ensure proper grounding. Thermal imaging tests post-installation can help identify micro cracks that may have developed due to improper handling of modules. Proper module fixing hardware, including well-defined specifications for fasteners, clamping, and hardening requirements, is also important for ensuring the safety and longevity of your solar PV system.
4. Performance: Inadequate Monitoring and Follow-Up on Corrective Actions Intermittent monitoring of the system and a lack of follow-up on corrective actions prompted by monitoring can lead to lower energy generation. Regular monitoring and follow-up on corrective actions can ensure that your solar PV system is operating at maximum capacity.
5. Documentation: Absence of Proper Documents and Unclear Contracts Proper documentation, including planning and design documents and power purchase agreements, is essential for the smooth operation of your rooftop solar PV system. Ensure that all documents are shared with the customer and that contracts are clear in all aspects.

In conclusion, investing in a rooftop solar PV system requires careful consideration of key quality and safety issues. Paying attention to the five key considerations mentioned in this article can help you select the right components for your system and ensure maximum project returns.