SolarEdge power optimizers – maximize PV energy yield, increase safety

The versatile optimizers from SolarEdge are distinguished primarily by two major strengths: efficiency and safety. Let's take a closer look at these strengths in detail:

Maximum photovoltaic efficiency through SolarEdge power optimizers

Power optimizers are designed to ensure that photovoltaic systems generate as much power as possible. SolarEdge power optimizers go a step further: they identify damaged and shaded modules and work as a team using these technologies:

• Module monitoring:
  The system is monitored in real time via the mySolarEdge app. Each optimizer has its own MPP (Maximum Power Point) tracker, allowing you to monitor the output of the system accurately. The optimizer transmits all output data via PLC (Power Line Communication) to the inverter and the monitoring app. As each module is paired with its own optimizer, you can detect anomalies in a module, such as damaged bypass diodes, at an early stage. n. The monitoring system also detects dirt or unexpected shading caused, for example, by a new building in the neighbourhood.
• Fixed voltage principle:
  A shaded or damaged module produces less power, causing the voltage to drop. Fluctuating voltage on a string reduces its efficiency and can affect the lifetime of the system. Therefore, SolarEdge optimizers operate with a fixed nominal DC voltage of 350 Vdc (single-phase) or 750 Vdc (three-phase).
• Power boost for optimal performance:
  The monitoring system makes it possible to monitor the ageing of the modules over the years and recognises that the rates of aging may differ for each module. Because every module has a separate MPP tracker, SolarEdge Power Boost allows the system to identify the aging modules and redirects power from the stronger modules to them. This ensures that the string output is not driven by the weakest module, and that the energy yield is always maximised.
• Shading management:
  Unlike other optimizers, SolarEdge power optimizers do not completely shut down a shaded module. The module continues to produce electricity at a lower level without negatively affecting the other modules in the string or the entire string.
• Flexibility:
  Thanks to the individual monitoring and flexible design, SolarEdge systems with power optimizers are also suitable for complex roof structures. In addition to partially shaded areas, you can also consider different inclinations or orientations in the planning process. This allows you to maximize or oversize the DC power in most of the cases: The PV system makes ideal use of the available space.

Increased safety during maintenance and emergencies

SolarEdge is known for its safety and reliability, and this is why SolarEdge systems often win public tenders. Additionally, they are particularly well-suited for delicate installations, primarily thanks to these innovative technologies:

• SafeDC™:
  This technology reduces the voltage per module to 1 V DC in the event of a fault. This means that in a string of 12 modules, the overall voltage would only amount to 12 V. When the PV system is in SafeDC™ mode, there is no danger for the installer during repairs or emergency work services in situations such as severe weather conditions or a fire.
• SenseConnect:
  SenseConnect is an early warning system, similar to a car's brake assist. It detects abnormal activities and high temperatures in the DC connectors and cables. If such a situation occurs, SenseConnect shuts down the system and immediately notifies the system operator and installer via the SolarEdge monitoring app. This early detection can prevent issues such as arc faults caused by defective connectors or cables.
• Arc fault detection:
  If SenseConnect is the brake assist, then arc fault detection is the airbag: it's designed to prevent worse scenarios when a fault occurs, such as after damage caused by severe weather conditions. If the SolarEdge system recognizes an electric arc is occurring, it immediately shuts down the system. The monitoring app alerts you and the system owner immediately, allowing you to act as quickly as possible.
• Firefighter Gateway:
  The SolarEdge Firefighter Gateway provides centralized safety management of the SolarEdge systems. In the event of a fire or flood, firefighters can immediately stop the energy production of a SolarEdge PV system. This can be done either manually via an emergency stop switch or automatically through the Firefighter Control Panel on the SolarEdge inverter, which activates the above-mentioned SafeDC™ mode.

For the commercial sector and large systems, e.g. ground-mounted systems, you should opt for the SolarEdge S1000 or 1200 versions. These powerful optimizers control 2 modules each, with 500 and 600 Wp, with a power tolerance of +5%. As a result, the two modules connected to a S1000 or S1200 power optimizer appear as a single module in the monitoring system.

Below we have summarized the key data of the different power classes for you:

When installing a SolarEdge PV system, you must connect optimizers to all modules without exception. Installing SolarEdge power optimizers is quick and easy: You screw the optimizers onto the mounting system with a simple M8 hammer-head screw, connect their short input cables to the PV module and the output cables (2.3 m for residential optimizers, up to 5.3 m for S1000 and S1200) to the PV string. Thanks to PLC technology, you don't need to connect any additional data cables. When installing the SolarEdge optimizers, you link each optimizer to its position on the roof via a QR code. This ensures that the monitoring occurs precisely and correctly after the start-up phase.

Since SolarEdge precisely matches its products to each other to optimize power, SolarEdge optimizers of the new S-generation are only compatible with SolarEdge inverters. However, they work with all standard PV modules available on the market. If an optimizer is damaged or fails, you can easily replace it, as the latest generation of SolarEdge power optimizers is always compatible with older systems.

The SolarEdge S-series power optimizers combine efficiency with innovative safety technologies and allow you to monitor the power of each individual module in real-time. If you want to increase the yield and safety of a PV system to a new level, SolarEdge optimizers are a good choice.

• Everything about  SolarEdge power optimizers @ Memodo
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